Homeless center doubling as overnight warming center
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Jan. 22, 2025) – Local homeless shelter officials have been doing what they can to help those camped out in this frigid weather.
Matt Ritzert and Rodney Sutton with the Friends of the Homeless organization were on the WJER morning show this week reminding everyone that the shelter is an overnight warming center.
“From 9 pm to 7 am, we are available. People can come in, get a cup of coffee, maybe a snack, take a nap, have a place to sit and get warm,” said Ritzert.
Staff and volunteers have also been taking supplies to local homeless encampments.
“Take blankets, coats, gloves, hats. You know, take ‘em hot chocolate and coffee. When we’re able we actually go out and check on those who actually are not in the shelter, who have camps in the cold,” said Sutton.
The shelter doubles as a warming center whenever the temperature falls to 25 degrees or below. Like regular shelter guests, overnight visitors are subject to a search of their belongings and a criminal background check.