— from Janine Heimerich for the Orcas Interfaith Council of Churches —

The churches here on Orcas have gotten together to provide an overnight Severe Weather Shelter. In a nutshell, the shelter will be:

  • Located in the basement fellowship hall at Orcas Island Community Church, with Benson Hall at Emmanuel Episcopal Church as a back-up.
  • Staffed by volunteers from the various congregations and other members of the community.
  • Open for overnight stays when the temperature is predicted to be 28 degrees or below. (I am using the NOAA website to predict when we’ll be open.)
  • Doors open at 6pm. Sign-in will be between 6pm — 9pm (although we’d take people in later if necessary).
  • Blankets, sleeping pads provided.
  • Hot (oatmeal) breakfast provided.
  • Doors close again at 8:30am.

We will be open this TUESDAY and WEDNESDAY nights (Nov. 24 and Nov. 25).

We really just want to spread awareness that it’s available — although I’d be happy to talk to interested individuals about donation/volunteering, as well. Contact  janine.heimerich@gmail.com or call 298-0759 for more information or clarification.

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