All Saints' has committed to opening our parish hall as a temporary emergency warming shelter during dangerously cold winter weather. When the temperature is forecast to fall below 20 degrees farenheit, including wind chill and precipitation, the church is open to unhoused guests overnight from 5pm to 9am. Up to 25 guests are given a warm, safe place to sleep, along with a hot dinner and breakfast, served by volunteers working in 4-hour shifts. 

Thanks to a generous grant from 3 Rivers Community Foundation, and an anonymous matching donation, professional security personel is provided for the safety of both volunteers and guests. We maintain a supply of inflatable mattresses and camping beds, along with sleeping bags, pillows, linens, and blankets. Guests are also provided toiletries as needed, such as soap, shampoo, and toothbrushes; donations of clean, warm gloves, hats, and clothing are available as well. 

This shelter could not operate without the generosity of our volunteers, both those within our parish and in the wider Tri-Cities community. All Saints' parishioners and community members have volunteered their time, donated supplies, and given financial assistance. 

Above all, our principal ministry is hospitality, which includes shelter, food, safety, comfort, and care. We value and respect all persons who come to us for shelter, knowing that each one of us is made in God's image.

Resources

Warming Shelter Manual: Outlines operating procedures, volunteer positions, house rules, etc.

Volunteer Application: Print a hard copy here, or submit digitally under the "How Can I Help" banner.

Training: Saturday, October 25, 2025 1-3PM

Volunteer Training and Orientation Guide

History of the Shelter 

 On December 22, 2022, we were enjoying our annual Christmas party, Candles and Carols. Outside the warm building, however, the temperature had reached the single digits with a bitter wind chill. Several people mentioned the lack of warming shelters in our area, especially during the holidays; a few parishioners spontaneously asked if we could open our parish hall to fill the need, and with the approval of the Senior Warden and our rector, Rev. Jane Schmoetzer, the work was begun that same night. 

During that first winter, we learned many lessons! Opening a shelter without much preparation was a huge undertaking, but thanks to the providence of God and the compassion and generosity of our neighbors, All Saints' was able to successfully offer a safe, warm place to 14 guests over the course of 11 days and nights. With a more robust plan and preparation, we hosted an average of 15 guests per night in early 2024. Collaborations with other area groups have strengthened the effort, and we are grateful to all who have offered support, whether that be through time, talent, or treasure.