4 minute read
Catholic Charities Emergency Warming Centers: Sharing the Warmth
By RUDY NAUL
As the colder months approach, the demand for emergency warming shelters continues to rise. Catholic Charities' Rochester Community Warming (RCWC) year-round shelter saw unprecedented numbers, highlighting both the ongoing need for these services and the critical role they play in the lives of individuals facing homelessness.
With a little over two weeks remaining in our current season, the Catholic Charities RCWC and our partner-run overflow shelter site served more than 650 individuals. Together, these shelters have provided more than 21,000 nights of shelter - a striking increase from past seasons.
What’s most notable is the spike in demand during the warmer months, which are traditionally a quieter period for shelters. June, July, August, and September have been the busiest in our Rochester sites' history, with a 40-to-50-percent increase in nights of shelter compared to last year. Our shelters are now averaging 65 guests per night, and July set a new record as the busiest month yet:
• More than 170 individuals served
• Nearly 2,100 nights of shelter
• More than 2,000 hot meals, 250 loads of laundry, and 300 showers provided in just one month
These numbers reflect not only the escalating needs in our community but also the unwavering commitment of Catholic Charities to respond with compassion and action.
Behind these statistics are powerful stories of resilience and hope. One story, in particular, stands out this season. For the past three years, a well-known individual in our community, who had been homeless for many years, would stay with us sporadically when he needed respite from life outdoors. As he aged and his health began to decline, his stays became more frequent, and it became clear that enduring another winter outside was no longer possible. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Catholic Charities staff and a dedicated social worker from a permanent supportive housing program, we were able to transition him to a safe, warm home where he will no longer have to fear the harsh winter ahead. This transformation story is just one example of how Catholic Charities is more than a temporary solution; we are a bridge to stability.
As we prepare to open our Winona Community Warming Center (WCWC) site, and prepare for the winter season at our Rochester Community Warming Center (RCWC) site, beginning November 1, we are very aware of the significant increase in demand for shelter, and know that we cannot meet all the needs of the guests who come to us for warmth and safety without the support of those in Southern Minnesota. By supporting our emergency shelters, you are directly helping provide life-saving shelter, warm meals, and essential services like laundry and showers to those who need it most.
This winter, we invite you to join us in making a difference through our Share the Warmth campaign. Even a small gift of $5 can Sponsor a Bed, ensuring someone in need has a warm, safe place to rest for the night. Your generosity does more than provide shelter; it offers the security and comfort of knowing there will always be a welcoming place for those who have nowhere else to go. In providing shelter and support, we reflect the love of Jesus, sharing the compassion of Christ with those who may feel lost, alone, and forgotten.
Donations can be made on our website at ccsomn.org. Your contributions help us continue to serve our community’s most vulnerable members, offering not only a bed but also the hope that comes through Christ’s love. Together, we are addressing homelessness in Southern Minnesota, one person, under God’s care and love, at a time.
Looking for other ways to get involved? Consider volunteering at a local shelter or check out a list of needed items for each shelter location. Visit our website for more details and opportunities to make a difference.
Rudy Naul is the director of housing and shelter programs for Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota.
