CWS Ceased Winter 2024-2025

After over a decade of offering some form of Winter Shelter, the program ceased prior to any offerings for Winter 2024-2025. Prior to the pandemic, Winter Shelter had been running under a successful model, offering nightly shelter from December to February. Due to the pandemic, the program had to pause. That pause and the fact that many host sites could no longer host ended the nightly model. Exhaustive efforts were made to maintain the program, but it had clearly come to its conclusion.

In an effort to meet the needs of the most extreme nights, Winter Shelter adopted an Emergency Model, which would be activated when weather conditions fell below a specific threshold. Over the three years that the model was attempted, it was found to be not effective for our community. While the unhoused community knew of the emergency model, it was not utilized for various reasons. The reasons included finding alternative housing in the winter, feeling more comfortable where they were camping, and concern their items would be stolen if they left for a night or two to get out of the conditions.

For those seeking shelter, please contact 211. That resource will have the most updated information on open shelters in the area. For other items such as clothing, hand warmers, food, etc., please go to Plateau Outreach Ministries. Additionally, a POM Case Manager would be happy to meet with you if you are looking to create a plan to help you explore your housing options.

The Future of CWS

Plateau Ministerial Association, along with Plateau Outreach Ministries, will continue to review options for restarting CWS. We desire that no one suffer unduly during the winter months, especially our unhoused neighbors.

As resources are found and new partnerships formed, PMA and POM will re-evaluate the viability of CWS. We ask for your prayers as we look to the future of CWS.