Kendra Gettig, Calvary Church Outreach Director
Out of the Cold: Centre County (OOTC3) is a partnership of local churches providing emergency overnight shelter for our local homeless population. Founded in 2011, our 7th season began October 23, 2017 and will close May 6, 2018.
Several years ago the Community Safety Net identified a need for additional overnight shelter space due to a growing homeless population in Centre County. Shortly thereafter, a man, sleeping in a tent during the winter, passed away from hypothermia. This event underscored the urgency of the shelter need and, as a result, Out of the Cold was founded. Beginning with four churches the first year, our ministry has grown steadily with 15 congregations currently serving.
The shelter is open every night from 9 p.m. until 7 a.m. and guests pre-register by calling 814.852.8864. Each person receives a hot dinner, cot, blankets, and breakfast. Every two weeks OOTC3 rotates to a new host church.
While homelessness is well hidden in our community, it exists. This season we have served over 80 different guests, 53 of whom are Centre County residents, averaging 15 a night. Some folks stay only one night, while others use the program much longer. Each guest has a unique story, but family conflict, mental health, addiction, abuse, abandonment, trauma, and death are common themes. Anyone needing shelter is welcome.
Out of the Cold values partnerships with other agencies. Many guests also spend time at Hearts for Homeless, a day shelter. There they are provided a warm place to stay, lunch, and assistance accessing other services – medical assistance, clothing, food, permanent housing, etc. Housing Transitions, Centre County Women’s Resource Center and Centre County Youth Service Bureau have helped many of our guests find housing. Of our 80 guests this year, 25 are enjoying a permanent living situation.
Out of the Cold is almost entirely volunteer run. Each evening four volunteers spend the night, while others prepare food, assist with check in, and visit with the guests. Approximately 400 volunteers have served this season. More participating churches would allow OOTC3 to extend the season: between May and October our guests are forced to find alternative sleeping arrangements, often resulting in their sleeping, unsheltered, exposed to the elements.
If you or anyone you know is currently unsheltered, call 814.852.8864 to register for the night. Please contact Kendra Gettig, Kendra@calvarysc.org or 814.238.0822 ext. 20 to get involved or with any questions. More information can be found at www.ootc3.org.
Comentarios