VOLUNTEER PAGE

The mission of the Warming Center: To provide a warm place for those who are homeless, and to help them survive the coldest nights by giving them a safe place to sleep, a good meal and a caring touch.   

Information for those preparing meals

  • We never know exactly how many people will be eating, but we suggest you prepare for approximately 15 guys.  The number of guys staying at the Warming Center has ranged from 5-12.  Normally, there will be several staff members who are present as well.   Leftovers are always welcome, as it is GREAT to be able to package up leftovers so each guy has a meal for the next day.  Any additional leftovers can be taken to the several families with children staying at the Salvation Army apartments just across from the Warming Center.  In case you still have leftovers, put them in the fridge (upstairs) and we will use it on a later date.       
  • Arrive at the Center by 6pm and be prepared to serve the meal by 6:30pm.   You will normally be finished serving and cleaning-up by 7:30pm.
  • Plan to provide food, drinks, as well as serving utensils.  We normally have plates, napkins, spoons & forks, a mocrowave, and salt and pepper at the center.    Upstairs in the Salvation Army facility there is an ice machine, an industrial stove, a large refrigeration unit (for leftovers) and sinks. 
  • Examples of meals we have had:  soup and sandwiches(pbj, ham, or gilled cheese (brought large plug-in grill surface)); stew and bread; chili and cornbread; lasagna and bread; spaghetti, salad and bread; pizza from Little Caesars; chicken, potato salad & bread; sandwich platter with hoagie buns and chicken & rice soup; and meat loaf, potatoes and green beans.  Canned fruit is also a good idea. 
  • Drinks have included canned soda & tea.  There is also a coffee maker there.  If you want to make coffee, bring coffee and plan to make around 10 cups or so.
  • If you take fresh fruit, make it something soft and easy to eat. 
  • Deserts like coblers, ice-cream, cookies, doughnuts, canned fruit etc., would be a welcome treat.   
  • TIPS
    • For soups and chili - serve in 12-16oz styrofoam cups.  They are easier to handle than bowls. 
    • Set up food on the first table on the left wall, as you enter.  Pull the table away from the wall so you can stand behind it and serve. 
    • Be ready to assist some of the guys with carrying their plates and drinks to the table or back to their beds. 
    • After all have eaten, offer to help the guys use the leftovers to prepare a meal for the next day.  The guys must leave the center by 7am the next morning, and the meal you help them prepare for the next day will be most welcome.  Consider bringing baggies or bags for the next day meal. 
    • If you need help carrying items from or to your vehicle, feel free to ask the guys to help you. 
  • Be sure to take the opportunity to speak to some of the guys and learn about them and their lives.   Board games are also available at the Center. 

Name Tags Help

If you find name tags at the Center, wear one with your name.  Try to get to know the names of the guys. Most everyone enjoys being called by their name. 

Get signed up to serve! 

Contact one of the following if you want to prepare or serve a meal for the Warming Center.