With extremely cold temperatures in the forecast this week, Rocky’s cold weather warming shelter says its is urgently seeking volunteers to help meet the growing demand this winter.
The shelter, located at the Lord’s Food Bank on 52 St. in Rocky Mountain House, is typically open nightly from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. throughout the winter, offering a safe haven for those in need during the coldest months.
However, as Kandis Stradecki, chairperson of the Clearwater Region Housing Foundation says, when temperatures are especially cold, as is the case this week, the shelter is open extended hours from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. nightly.
As of recently, though, organizers say they are struggling to find enough hands to assist with operations.
Volunteer duties would include hanging out with clients, as well as helping out with food and drinks, says volunteer coordinator Lindsay Hunt, in a response on social media.
During the most recent cold snap, Stradecki says the shelter has been busy with between seven and 10 people staying overnight at the shelter, with a number of ‘visitors’ coming and going just to warm up.
The shelter’s need for volunteers comes on the heels of a financial boost. Clearwater County recently approved a one-time $17,000 contribution to the shelter. It has also received assistance from the Government of Alberta, as well as the Town of Rocky Mountain House in the form of $300 contributions each time temperatures drop below -20°C, along with help with insurance costs.
Stradecki says the support has gotten the organization “over the hump” with enough support to finish out this year strong, and the ability to begin planning for next winter.
“It takes all of us working together to make this program a possibility,” she says.
Despite the financial support, the shelter’s volunteers remain crucial to its success. Stradecki says there’s a great deal of flexibility, with people allowed to do shifts that work with their schedule.
Ideally, each shift would be staffed by two volunteers, she says.
Those interested in lending a hand are urged to contact Lindsay at the Mountain Rose Centre at lhunt@mrwsa.net or call 403-845-5339.
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