Both of the shelters used in the Winter Hospitality Overflow program were filled to capacity on their first night of operation. That’s the first time that has ever happened, organizers said.
This is the ninth year for the program, which is operated by Share, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, St. Paul Lutheran Church and Council for the Homeless. From November to March, it offers temporary nightly shelter in the churches to those who cannot be accommodated in the dedicated shelters.
“For the first time in the history of the WHO, both locations filled to capacity in the first day,” said Craig Lyons, executive director for Council for the Homeless. “As the nights get colder and the rain begins, WHO is a vital and welcome resource for many in our community, including children, who need a warm and safe place to sleep.”
St. Andrew has a bed capacity of 42 for single women, couples and families, plus eight additional emergency family spots, for a total of 50 beds. St. Paul has a bed capacity of 24 for single men. Share House also provides additional bed space in the dining room, which was utilized by seven men on Nov. 1. Each WHO shelter is staffed with professional Share case managers who help clients work toward self-sufficiency.
