Council for the Homeless has issued a severe weather alert through Wednesday for the emergency shelter system in Clark County.
The announcement increases shelter capacity and alerts local organizations to provide additional resources.
People experiencing homelessness have a much higher risk than the general population of developing hypothermia or frostbite due to exposure.
People who need housing and shelter assistance should call Council for the Homeless’ Housing Hotline at 360-695-9677, which operates from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on holidays and weekends.
For an up-to-date list of warming centers, go to tinyurl.com/4j42v366.
“Calling severe weather at the right time allows us to mobilize resources quickly, open shelters and provide critical support to people most vulnerable, preventing severe health outcomes,” Sunny Wonder, chief operating officer at Council for the Homeless, said in the news release.
As part of the response plan, the council coordinates with partners and resources to meet the increased, urgent need. Preparations include expanding overnight shelter capacity, equipping outreach teams from multiple agencies with emergency supplies and ensuring Council for the Homeless staffing levels can meet the increased demand.
“Community members can help by visiting the Council for the Homeless website to learn about available resources and donating supplies or water,” Wonder said in the news release. “If you see someone who is potentially in crisis or needing shelter, direct them to resources that are available in the community.”
Donated items should be new and unscented. The council’s Amazon Wish List includes wool socks, tarps, warm hats, gloves, hand warmers and sleeping bags, and can be found at www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1ZD8W12QZ5ESH.
To donate funds, visit councilforthehomeless-bloom.kindful.com.