KELOWNA – A seasonal shelter for the homeless in Kelowna opens its doors Saturday for the winter.
The Inn from the Cold charity provides overnight shelter to people living on the streets during the coldest months.
“Every winter, Inn from the Cold opens to ensure that no one has to sleep outside. By providing additional shelter services in Kelowna, we are able to work together with our community partners to ensure no one falls between the cracks and is left out in the cold,” says IFTC spokesperson Tara Tschritter.
The Sutherland Avenue “minimal barrier” shelter has 35 beds and is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.. People are welcome to stay after a vulnerability assessment is completed to identify those most in need.
The charity also provides Free Store services. “Many individuals are accessing our Free Store to get blankets and warm clothing. Some have expressed that they are staying outside waiting for our shelter to open,” says store manager Val McCullough.
Inn from the Cold is volunteer based and relies on donations and fund raising to cover operating costs.
“Inn from the Cold is only able to operate because of the support of a huge number of volunteers. Every year, we fill hundreds of volunteer shifts in our shelter and we are so grateful to each and every person who helps us by giving us their time,” says board president Mark Dixon.
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