Parkinson Recreation Centre opens its doors to evacuees

• Parkinson was used as evacuation centre
• Many people staying in Kelowna from affected communities

The City of Kelowna is offering a space to blow off some steam for those directly impacted by the recent flooding. The city says people staying in Kelowna who have been evacuated from their homes due to recent natural disasters can access the Parkinson Recreation Centre for free until further notice.

“The last couple of years have been tough on everyone and now these people have been flooded out,” Drew Petrie, administration and business services manager at Parkinson Recreation Centre, told Kelowna10.

“We understand that many people staying in our city at the moment are dealing with incredible challenges back home, and we want to do what we can to help those displaced feel a bit more at ease during their time here.”

Parkinson Recreation has a full weight gym with cardio equipment and has a full-sized gymnasium with basketball hoops. The aquatic centre hosts a full-size pool, steam room, hot tub, and a wading pool for young children.

Parkinson may already seem familiar to many evacuees. Emergency Support Services (ESS) turned it into the evacuation centre. After arriving in Kelowna, they went there first.

There they would have been given assistance from ESS like being assigned accommodation and food support. Many of the evacuees are from Merritt, Princeton, Lytton, and surrounding areas.

Petrie hopes these temporary residents take advantage of the free recreation offered at Parkinson.

“I hope this program helps the families and individuals that are in town here. If it can take their mind off what they’re going through and they can come here, get some exercise, burn off some steam, let some kids have some fun, I think that would be fantastic,” Petrie said.

Displaced residents will simply need to present ID with proof of residence including their photo and home address to receive access at no cost. It is recommended to check the website ahead of time for availability.

All visitors must also be fully vaccinated to use the fitness centre at Parkinson Recreation Centre, in compliance with Provincial Health Orders. Learn more about safety measures in place at recreation facilities at kelowna.ca/recreation.