Closed
Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program
Funding for temporary winter emergency shelter spaces
Last Update: April 21, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
British Columbia
Overview
The Extreme Weather Response Program provides funding for temporary emergency shelter spaces during extreme winter weather. It supports community-based EWR plans, shelter activation, and related operating needs for organizations serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new program or service
- Increase social or community impact
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Health care and social assistance
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
Location
- British Columbia
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Opening temporary emergency shelter spaces during extreme winter weather.
- Operating a community-based winter response shelter under an approved EWR Plan.
- Coordinating local partners to activate and manage shelter spaces during alerts.
Documents Needed
- EWR Plan
- Proposed EWR Nightly Budget
- EWR Report
- Evidence that an extreme weather response is required
- Proof of municipal and fire department approval for the shelter site
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Community partners
- Non-profit organizations
- Faith organizations
- Municipalities
- Other community groups
Eligible expenses
- Nightly shelter operating budget costs
- Invoiceable related costs for EWR shelter operation
Eligible geographic areas
- British Columbia
- Communities listed in the 2025/2026 EWR planning table
Processing and Agreement
- BC Housing reviews EWR Plan proposals and provides support as needed.
- All EWR Plans must be approved before the shelter can operate under the program.
- During extreme weather, the community representative issues and later cancels the alert.
- At the end of the season, the EWR Report must be submitted to BC Housing.
Additional information
- BC Housing continues to review new EWR Plan proposals throughout the winter.
- Community planning is done locally with BC Housing approval required for each plan.
- Approved shelters must comply with municipal bylaws and fire regulations.
- The shelter provider must provide proof of municipal and fire department approval.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program?
The Extreme Weather Response Program provides funding for temporary emergency shelter spaces during extreme winter weather. It supports community-based EWR plans, shelter activation, and related operating needs for organizations serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Who is eligible for the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program program?
To be eligible for the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program program, you must:
Community-based EWR shelter plan
Temporary winter shelter spaces
BC Housing approval required
What expenses are eligible under Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program?
Opening temporary emergency shelter spaces during extreme winter weather.
Operating a community-based winter response shelter under an approved EWR Plan.
Coordinating local partners to activate and manage shelter spaces during alerts.
Who can I contact for more information about the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program?
You can contact Municipality of North Cowichan by email at EWR_BCH@bchousing.org or by phone at 604-439-4150.
Where is the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program available?
The Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program program is available the province of British Columbia.
Is the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program?
Extreme Weather Response (EWR) Program is funded by Municipality of North Cowichan