The end of daylight savings signals that nights will come earlier and become colder. You may recall the severe rains and cold weather this past winter. More of this weather is again forecast this winter.
Think about the suffering that severe rain and cold bring to our homeless neighbors. Some of us may get caught in the rain for a few moments, but none of us endures hours of pouring rain. Let us remember that at least 158 unhoused people died in Ventura County in 2022.
For the first time, the cities of Ventura and Oxnard will each be opening separate Foul Weather Shelter (FWS) programs during the coming winter. In addition to the 24/7 shelters both cities currently operate, the FWS programs will provide motel rooms for unhoused people when the weather becomes severe. Between December 1st of this year to the end of March, 2024, the FWS programs will be triggered when predicted temperatures fall below 40 degrees or over
½ inch of rain is anticipated.
The Foul Weather Shelter programs in Ventura and Oxnard will protect about 40 of the most vulnerable homeless folks. Priority for FWS beds will be people over 65 and/or those with serious health conditions. Remaining rooms will be on a first come/first served basis. For those who cannot get a room, “stay warm packs” will be provided.
How can you help?
The FWS programs in both Ventura and Oxnard will rely on the generosity of faith communities. River Community Church in Ventura and All Saints Episcopal Church in Oxnard will serve as program centers. You can help in the following ways:
4. Volunteer when the FWS is triggered. Volunteers are needed to help support the FWS programs by hosting participants at gathering centers and distributing “stay warm packs.” If you would like to volunteer, please contact the following:
For Ventura, contact Kappy Paulson.
For Oxnard, contact Yukio Okano.
A Message from Yukio Okano
Member… Lift Up Your Voice to End Homelessness
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