The Warm Welcome Shelter is carrying on with steady, but low attendance this year.
“We’re still proceeding through the winter, but it hasn’t been as high as normal,” said director of hospitality, Colleen Jensen. “Now that we’ve had some cooler weather, more people have been using the shelter.”
The shelter has been accommodating an average of three guests a night, with the occasional fourth guest staying every once in a while.
Jensen noted there is still a need for more volunteers, especially volunteers who are able to work the shift that runs from midnight until 8:00 a.m.
“I’ve been so grateful for people who have donated everything,” said Jensen. “Specifically socks, for sure, and personal hygiene kits, so the guests can take them when they leave in the morning to shower at the Leisure Centre.”
Jensen noted that many of this year’s guests are from outside of the city, from areas near Gainsborough and Carnduff, who come in to utilize the shelter.
Jensen commended the work of all the people who have volunteered this year, noting that many of them have quickly become comfortable and now work efficiently on their shifts. She said the positive attitudes and warm, welcoming demeanour of the volunteers make the shelter a very user-friendly place.
“Certain volunteers come right into the church to cook meals for the guests too,” she added.
Jensen took time to thank everyone who has donated to the shelter, noting that the amount of donations made during the Christmas season was incredible.
“I’m talking about board games, socks, and personal care items. One organization went above and beyond, supplying laundry detergent for guests, when they leave,” said Jensen. “There have been countless meal donations. If not for (our donors), it wouldn’t be such a successful program.”
The Warm Welcome Shelter will remain open until the end of March. The shelter opens at 8:00 p.m. and runs until 8:00 a.m. On Sunday, Monday and Tuesday the shelter is located at the Salvation Army building, and on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the shelter is at St. Paul’s United Church.
