Last week, Egan Warming Center created a pop-up shelter due to an unseasonal cold snap. KLCC spoke with regional warming centers about their preparations as winter approaches.
According to Winter Strategies Coordinator Tim Black, more than 340 guests stayed in the pop-up shelter over two nights.
“When it’s that cold, people need to be inside to be safe,” said Black.
Pastor James Markus with Beds For Freezing Nights in Cottage Grove and Greg Wood from Florence Cold Weather Shelter agree the goal is to create a safe space for people who need a warm place to sleep.
Hours and services vary, but all welcome adults and families. Unaccompanied minors will be connected with community partners who are better equipped for their needs. Each location is in need of volunteers.
Black explains why, “The real issue comes when we have many nights in a row. We have a core set of really strong volunteers that would work every single day if they could. But that’s a lot to ask.”
Volunteer information:
BEDS FOR FREEZING NIGHTS, COTTAGE GROVE
http://www.freezingnights.com/
Training for current and new volunteers will be held Saturday, November 10th from 10-12pm.
EMERGENCY COLD WINTER SHELTER, FLORENCE
florencepresb.org/ or 541-997-7136
Trainings held on an as needed basis.
EGAN WARMING CENTERS, EUGENE
http://www.eganwarmingcenter.com/
Upcoming trainings will be held at the following times with more to be scheduled.
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 12:00pm, Eugene Public Library, Bascom-Tykeson room)
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 7:00pm, Temple Beth Israel, 1175 E 29th Ave., Eugene
Shelter information:
BEDS FOR FREEZING NIGHTS, COTTAGE GROVE
www.freezingnights.com/ or 541-658-9254
Held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
Opens when temperatures drop below 29 degrees
Operates 7pm to 7:30am
EMERGENCY COLD WINTER SHELTER, FLORENCE
Held at Presbyterian Church-Siuslaw
Opens when temperatures drop below 32 degrees
Operates 5pm to 8am
EGAN WARMING CENTERS
http://www.eganwarmingcenter.com/
Various locations - including a new one in Springfield and a women only center in South Eugene
Opens when temperatures drop below 30 degrees