Our first long stretch of warming center nights went exceptionally well, and we want to share both our gratitude and a snapshot of what it took to make it happen. Because of the willingness of volunteers, donors, shoppers, and those who helped prepare the space (including the all-important job of turning on the heat), we were able to offer a warm, steady presence during cold nights. We are especially thankful for how smoothly this stretch ran. People signed up, showed up, and supported one another, making it pssible to operate without last-minute scrambling. That kind of participation makes a real difference.

Over the first 10 nights, here is what we were able to provide together:

• 737 mats and blankets for guests
• 38 pet visits
• 23 volunteers contributing a total of 190 hours in the kitchen and shopping for supplies

We served approximately:

• 300 pounds of restaurant-quality soup
• 30 pounds of dry rice, cooked and buttered
• 250+ instant noodle cups
• 1,000+ packets of instant oatmeal
• 4 pounds of butter and 2 tubs of margarine
• An estimated 500 snack bars
• 18 loaves of bread
• 2 jars of strawberry jam
• 1.5 jars of Jif peanut butter
• 15+ bags of mandarin oranges
• 20 pounds of sliced oranges and bananas
• 12+ cans of decaf coffee and 5+ cans of regular coffee
• 20 pounds of creamer
• 20 pounds of cocoa mix

We are deeply thankful for everyone who contributed time, resources, and care to make these nights possible. This work is not always easy, but it is meaningful, and it reflects our shared commitment to showing up for our neighbors in practical ways.

Blessings and rest to all who served.