Thurston County expands support for homeless because of hazardous cold weather

Because of freezing overnight temperatures the rest of the week, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services issued a Hazardous Weather Advisory late Wednesday afternoon to offer extended nightly shelter beds and provide more support for those who must shelter in place.

Extended overnight shelter beds will be provided for single adults over the age of 18 at First Christian Church, 701 Franklin St. SE, Olympia, if staffing allows.

People began distributing Shelter-in Place survival gear to those living in unsheltered communities on Tuesday, Nov. 29, and distribution will continue throughout the week.

Shelter options also are available at:

  • The Union Gospel Mission, 413 Franklin St. NE, Olympia, for single men and women.

  • St. Michael’s Parish for single men through Sidewalk

  • Family Support Center’s Pear Blossom Place, 837 Seventh Ave. SE, Olympia, for families with children needing shelter.

  • Community Youth Services, 520 Pear St. SE,Olympia, for youth ages 18-24.

Donations of blankets, twin/single bed sheets, ramen, non-perishable snacks, coffee, creamer, hot tea, hot chocolate, disposable cups and utensils, socks, long johns, underwear, tarps, ponchos, hand warmers, sleeping bags, tents, gloves/mittens, hats, and warm clothing are needed. Donations will be accepted at First Christian Church from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1.

Volunteers for the shelter will need to have gone through an official Hazardous Weather Shelter Volunteer Training through Interfaith Works. For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact Brock.schafer@iwshelter.org or Keylee Marineau at 360-490-5910 or Keylee.marineau@co.thurston.wa.us.