Logan County Winter Emergency Warming Shelter Open; Seeks Volunteers

SHARE NOW

As temperatures continue to drop, Logan County has activated its Emergency Warming Shelter (EWS) to provide a safe place for those in need.

The shelter is located at the Bellefontaine First Church of God, Youth Entrance (lower level), and is open when temperatures fall below 20 degrees.

The Logan County Housing Innovations Team, which is a subcommittee of the Logan County Housing Coalition, oversees the shelter with Recovery Zone serving as the coordinating and fiscal agency.

For more information or to inquire about the shelter, you can contact Recovery Zone at (937) 210-9003.

Warming Shelter Rules:

  1. Check-In Window: Guests must arrive between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. to sign in. No entry is allowed after this time, except in emergencies or with pre-approved exceptions. Smoking is not allowed after the building is secured.
  2. Exit Times: All guests must leave by 6:00 a.m. Monday through Friday to accommodate the church’s daycare schedule. On weekends, guests must exit by 8:00 a.m. Wake-up time will be around 5:30 a.m..
  3. Respectful Behavior: Aggressive or threatening behavior is strictly prohibited. Harassment, discrimination, and hate speech will not be tolerated. Guests are asked to maintain appropriate conversation at all times.
  4. Substance Policy: Alcohol, illegal drugs, or substance use are not allowed in the shelter. Intoxicated individuals may enter but must demonstrate the ability to behave safely and respectfully. Disruptive behavior could result in being asked to leave.
  5. Personal Items & Property: Guests are responsible for their own belongings. The shelter is not liable for any lost or stolen items. A plastic storage bin will be provided for personal belongings, and anything that doesn’t fit must be stored in a sealed plastic bag.
  6. No Weapons: Weapons of any kind are prohibited. Dangerous items may be confiscated or securely stored by staff.
  7. Lights Out / Quiet Time: A designated lights-out or quiet time will be announced (e.g., 9:30 p.m.) to allow everyone to rest. Guests are asked to keep noise levels low.
  8. Follow Volunteer & Staff Instructions: Volunteers and staff are there for everyone’s safety. Guests are required to follow their instructions. Disruptive behavior may result in removal from the shelter.
  9. Cleanliness & Hygiene: Basic hygiene is expected to maintain a healthy environment. Guests must clean up after themselves, keep the restroom sanitary, and throw away any trash.
  10. Zero-Tolerance Violence Policy: Any physical violence or severe threats will result in an immediate ban from the shelter.

This shelter provides a critical service to the community during extreme cold weather conditions.

Please share this information with anyone in need of assistance.

Volunteers Needed:

The Emergency Warming Shelter is reaching out to the community for volunteers.

Anyone willing to volunteer is encouraged to sign up.

Several people have already signed up to help with the 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. intake time, but there is still a significant need for assistance during the overnight hours.

If you are interested in volunteering, you can contact Recovery Zone at (937) 210-9003 to sign up and find out more about the volunteer role, including the specific days and times that need support.