About Polk County Warming Centers
Warming centers are not a new idea; we've even had them in Polk County in the past. The reason for our current model is to provide a sustainable way of offering safe and warm places year after year without overburdening any one faith community or resource partner. This conversation started between a couple of pastors in Monmouth in October 2017. Although we weren't able to open that season, the ball started rolling. The county stepped in and applied for a grant, which we were generously awarded from the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency--more than double the amount we asked for! You can read more about our model and our goals for that first Winter season in this Statesman Journal article. We are constantly adapting as we discover better ways to serve our Polk County neighbors.
FAQs
When are you open?
When the low temperature is forecast to drop to 32F or below for a period of three nights, we activate on that first night. Intake is from 7-9 p.m. (please call 503-949-4987 for access after hours). The center is open until 7 a.m. Check here to see when and where we're open.
Where is the Warming Center located?
We are scheduling host sites throughout Monmouth, Independence, Dallas, and Falls City. NOTE: There may be a permanent warming center location in Falls City starting Winter 2019! These are churches and other facilities open to the public. Each location will be on call for a two-week period.
I live in another town and don't have transportation. How can I get there?
We can help! Transportation is available with an hour's notice on the days we activate. We want you to be able to get to the warming center and back to your community the next morning.
What about all my stuff?
For everyone's safety, we ask that you leave all bags, luggage, and backpacks with us when you check in. We will label with your name and secure them in a safe space until you check out. Please do not bring any weapons, drugs, or alcohol to the warming center.
What area(s) do you serve?
Rural Polk County, Oregon (basically everything outside of West Salem)
I have kids. Are families welcome?
Yes! Kids are welcome with a parent or guardian. For unaccompanied youth under age 18, we will work with law enforcement or DHS to contact relatives or find alternative shelter as needed.
What about pets?
Well-behaved animals are welcome, but must be kenneled while inside the building. Crates and food/water provided.
Can you use donations?
Yes! Instant decaf coffee/tea, bullion, gloves, socks, blankets, sleeping bags, and other wintry-warm items are especially appreciated. For a complete list, please visit our Get Involved page. Donations can be brought to the warming center location during the intake hours of 7-9 p.m. on the nights we're open or to the Dallas Resource Center, and we can distribute from there as needed. Thanks for your support!
When the low temperature is forecast to drop to 32F or below for a period of three nights, we activate on that first night. Intake is from 7-9 p.m. (please call 503-949-4987 for access after hours). The center is open until 7 a.m. Check here to see when and where we're open.
Where is the Warming Center located?
We are scheduling host sites throughout Monmouth, Independence, Dallas, and Falls City. NOTE: There may be a permanent warming center location in Falls City starting Winter 2019! These are churches and other facilities open to the public. Each location will be on call for a two-week period.
I live in another town and don't have transportation. How can I get there?
We can help! Transportation is available with an hour's notice on the days we activate. We want you to be able to get to the warming center and back to your community the next morning.
What about all my stuff?
For everyone's safety, we ask that you leave all bags, luggage, and backpacks with us when you check in. We will label with your name and secure them in a safe space until you check out. Please do not bring any weapons, drugs, or alcohol to the warming center.
What area(s) do you serve?
Rural Polk County, Oregon (basically everything outside of West Salem)
I have kids. Are families welcome?
Yes! Kids are welcome with a parent or guardian. For unaccompanied youth under age 18, we will work with law enforcement or DHS to contact relatives or find alternative shelter as needed.
What about pets?
Well-behaved animals are welcome, but must be kenneled while inside the building. Crates and food/water provided.
Can you use donations?
Yes! Instant decaf coffee/tea, bullion, gloves, socks, blankets, sleeping bags, and other wintry-warm items are especially appreciated. For a complete list, please visit our Get Involved page. Donations can be brought to the warming center location during the intake hours of 7-9 p.m. on the nights we're open or to the Dallas Resource Center, and we can distribute from there as needed. Thanks for your support!
