Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer
Hope Missions of the Upstate is seeking overnight volunteers as its warming center opens for winter nights, opening whenever the temperature in Anderson drops below 38 degrees for more than four hours.
The warming center operates at Hope Missions, 213 S. Towers St. It provides overnight shelter and meals for people experiencing homelessness and others seeking protection from the cold.
Dave Phillips, founder of Hope Missions, who oversees the center's volunteer recruitment, said the outreach addresses a basic need during the winter months.
"We're here to ensure the safety and comfort of those experiencing homelessness or simply to escape the cold," Phillips said.
Volunteers work in teams of men and women. The overnight period runs from 9:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., divided into two shifts:
First shift, 9:30 p.m.–2 a.m.: Volunteers set up cots, blankets and sheets; keep track of guests in the sleeping area and the "Big Room"; assign guests to cots; conduct security checks every 30 minutes; and prepare coffee and set out condiments.
Second shift, 2–6:30 a.m.: Volunteers track guests, continue security checks, restock the coffee service area, wake guests at 6 a.m., and bag and label blankets and sheets for individual guests.
Volunteers can apply through a registration form or visit Hope Missions in person, Phillips said. The ministry is open Monday through Saturday from 7:15 to 10 a.m., except the last Saturday of each month.
Staff will follow up with a phone call after receiving a volunteer application.
Anyone interested may also email Phillips at dave@hopeupstate.org.
