By Charlene Welch, Council for the Homeless

Did you know planning for the increased need for shelter during the winter actually begins in the previous spring? Council for the Homeless convenes a Winter Weather Task Force and the details, logistics, and resources are steadily put in place to be operational November 1st.

Thanks to our community’s year round shelters, the Winter Hospitality Overflow, and the locations that open during severe weather, the shelter capacity expands significantly during the coldest months of the year. “Offering overnight shelter at our church is very rewarding,” shares Cheryl Pfaff, member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. “Our guests tell us how grateful they are for a safe place to sleep and our welcoming space. Volunteers come from inside our congregation and the community at-large. They receive training and support and do a great job.”

The Winter Hospitality Overflow and the severe weather shelter sites are always in need of volunteers! Community members are invited to check out the opportunities posted at this link: https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/winter-shelter-volunteering/

A special thanks to the Winter Weather Task Force members: 211, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, City of Vancouver, Clark County, CRESA 911, Food With Friends, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Living Hope Church, Outsiders Inn, Share, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, St. Matthew Lutheran Church, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Washougal Community Center.