United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Announces Opening of New Warming Centre

The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville is pleased to announce the opening of a new warming centre to support unhoused individuals during the winter months. The centre will open January 2, 2026 and operate seven days a week from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. until the new emergency shelter location opens in Spring 2026.

Located at 55 Reynolds Drive in Brockville, the warming centre will provide a low-barrier, safe indoor space for up to 40 individuals per night. Guests will have access to food, potable water, and washroom facilities, along with coordinated referrals to outreach services, Ontario Works, housing supports, and mental health and addictions services, including integration with the By-Name List. Guests accessing this service will be able to stay throughout the night to stay warm from the elements.

The warming centre will be operated in partnership with Bartimaeus, an organization specializing in behavioural support services across Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Bartimaeus staff are highly qualified, each holding a degree or diploma in social services and a minimum of five years’ experience in the field. Two Bartimaeus staff will be on-site per shift, supported by security provided through Commissionaires.

Ontario Works staff will continue to provide daytime case management support to assist clients in securing permanent, safe, and affordable housing.

This initiative is fully funded through the Counties’ existing Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP) allotment.

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Media inquiries:

John Kalivas, Communications Coordinator

United Counties of Leeds and Grenville

25 Central Avenue W., Suite 100, Brockville, ON, K6V 4N6

613-342-3840 ext. 2454 or John.Kalivas@uclg.on.ca