As cold weather lingers overnight and into the morning, four local downtown Reno churches have partnered with RISE, or the Reno Initiative for Shelter and Equality, to open their doors as Warming Centers for the homeless and those in need.
Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, and Lutheran Good Shepherd, in partnership with Reno First United Methodist Church, will cycle facilities weekly, offering a place to stay warm, sleep, get food and water, and receive hygiene products.
First United Methodist Church pastor, Reverend Doctor George Edd-Barrett, touched on the services volunteers and staff provide.
"We can house as many as 25-30 people. They come in at 9 p.m. and are allowed to stay until 6 a.m.," he said. They find a space that's nice and safe. Make themselves comfortable. They get sleeping bags and pillows and cots, and any kind of hygiene supplies that are necessary. They get ready for bed, and they just sleep throughout the night."
Edd-Barrett says the church volunteers and RISE staff ensure the area is safe and comfortable, especially for women and children, who might not have any other place to go.
Before leaving in the morning, clients can get a warm beverage as well as warm clothing like gloves or beanies. They can also get heating packs.
RISE representatives tell us almost 1,000 volunteers from all over are aiding this effort, and that these services they provide are crucial as the winter weather approaches.
"We have experienced many deaths over the years that could have been preventable," said Harm Reduction Specialist for RISE Lily Baran.
"If a police officer is encountering someone who is experiencing homelessness, for them to accept service as it takes 15 to 50 interactions. In this case, we can provide a low barrier, no barrier option in one interaction to get someone to accept that service."
The Warming Center will be open nightly at 9 p.m., alternating churches each week.
