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Press release from the City of Eureka:

The City of Eureka is seeking volunteers to sign-up for an “on-call” volunteer list for Eureka’s Emergency Overnight Warming Center when severe weather events occur. Being led by Eureka’s faith- based communities and working in partnership with the Eureka Police Department’s Community Safety Engagement Team (CSET), Uplift Eureka, Crisis Alternative Response of Eureka (CARE), Betty Kwan Chinn Foundation, and other community partners, Eureka’s Emergency Overnight Warming Center program provides a safe place for people to stay on dangerously cold nights.

Throughout winter months and when severe weather events occur, Eureka’s Emergency Overnight Warming Center will rotate between Lifehouse and Faith Center. Severe weather can include high winds, significant rain, and freezing temperatures.

When open, the Emergency Overnight Warming Center will operate between 6pm and 7am. At night, four designated pick-up locations will transport individuals to the Emergency Overnight Warming Center location. In the morning, individuals will be transported back to service centers in Eureka. Pets are allowed.

“I’d like to not only thank the Lifehouse Church and Faith Center, but all of our faith-based community as we have received offers of assistance from other churches and look forward to working with them to continue supporting those most vulnerable within our community” says Miles Slattery, City Manager.

According to Lifehouse Church Senior Pastor Willy Bowles, “Opening up our building to be a safe place for men, women, and children to come in times of severe weather is a no-brainer. Nobody should ever freeze to death in Humboldt County. That is simply not acceptable.”

Volunteer signups are being sought to develop an “on-call” list for when the Emergency Overnight Warming Center opens. Volunteers will assist guests with check-in and provide additional support throughout the night. There is no experience necessary to volunteer and training will be provided. Although staffing is needed from 6pm to 7am, shift hours can be flexible to meet the needs of volunteers. When the Emergency Overnight Warming Center opens, volunteers will receive a notification by text requesting their assistance. Volunteers can then respond in real-time to confirm their availability.

One evening of your time can help save a life.

Sign up today at www.EurekaWarmingCenter.com. Any questions can be sent to EWOC@eurekaca.gov or by calling 707-441-4206.

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