As temperatures drop and Christmas songs fill the air, there is nothing better than cuddling up in some heavy blankets or relaxing in front of the fireplace after a long day’s work. Unfortunately, not everyone has the option to do so. Many have to face the winter’s harshest months without a roof over their heads or heat sources within their homes. Thanks to Warm Nights program, at least every person in Greene County has a safe, warm place to turn to on the coldest of nights.
“If you have no place to stay, then we can help,” said Amy Switalski, the director of Greene County’s Housing Department.
Warm Nights provides a free overnight shelter at the Greene County Fairgrounds on nights that are 25 degrees and below. It is open to both individuals and families from December through March. Participants must call to register by 4pm on the day of their stay and may arrive between 7 and 10pm. There are no walk-ins allowed. Guests are welcome to stay from 7pm to 7am. The shelter provides a cot and bedding for a full night’s sleep. Some basic amenities are also provided such as electricity, running water, hot showers, living furniture, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
While anyone is welcome to stay at the facility, there are some ground rules. Warm Nights is intended to provide a safe and comforting environment for all its guests. No weapons, drugs, or alcohol are permitted inside the shelter. Animal companions also cannot come along unless they are registered service animals. Fortunately, the Greene County Humane Society provides free overnight housing for pets so they have a safe place to rest their heads as well.
The whole initiative is possible thanks to the collective efforts of the Greene County community. A variety of organizations, businesses, county departments, and officials have helped make Warm Nights a reality and continue to help support its mission. At the heart of Warm Night’s success is also the volunteers who dedicate their time to keeping the shelter running. All the donations to the shelter also help significantly.
“So, in essence, everything pertaining to the house and program is taken care of through generous donations and the cooperation of the many involved entities and volunteers,” said Switalski.
Along with providing a place to stay during the night, the housing staff additionally suggests daytime spots to go to that will protect guests from the bitter cold. In the future, they also would possibly like to expand through a partnership with the local Salvation Army and food pantries. Right now, any meals offered to depend on donations from volunteers and community members.
Thanks to everyone involved in running Warm Nights, families have had refuge from the cold for eight years now. Whether it is because of a broken heater or an unpredicted situation, anyone who needs a break from the weather has Warm Nights as an option. In order to register, call SPHS Crisis line at 1-800-417-9460 or dial 211.