There are concerns that the record-cold temperature predictions for Prince George this week will put extra stress on the city’s homeless shelters.

The Social Planning and Research Council of British Columbia (SPARC BC) said there were 160 homeless people in Prince George at last count, and 1 in 3 were living on the street.

With temperatures of as low as -40 predicted for this week, Lorraine Copas, Executive Director for SPARC BC explained the biggest concern for much of the province continues to be reliable longer-term housing.

She stressed communities try to do what they can, but this time of year is hard for homeless shelters in particular.

“The investments are being made, but you see that so many people have been pushed to the margins, and don’t have options available right now.”

Copas explained the issue is different for each community, especially in the north.

“At the end of the day, it has everything to do with the cost of housing, whether there is the right supports in the community for individuals,” she said.

“There is a lot of pressure on housing and it’s a real challenge.”

Copas mentioned B.C. created funding for community-based action research grants.

These grants range from small, short term project funding of around $10,000 to larger, longer-term grants of up to $50,000.