Crisis Intervention Hotline: 330-264-9029

Weather Protection for the Unhoused

Alexa Carlozzi • July 7, 2022
All statements below that are not cited are based on the knowledge, opinion, and experience of the author or the interviewee

          For those with permanent shelter, extreme weather is usually just an annoyance or nuisance. But for those without permanent shelter, extreme weather can be fatal. Frigid temperatures and high heat can lead to several health complications, such as hypothermia or heatstroke. Storms can destroy a person’s belongings - especially as storage remains a persistent gap. The dangers of extreme weather are why structural protection for the unhoused population is so important.

 

          For the extreme cold, The Wayne County Housing Coalition founded the “Severe Weather Shelter” to be run out of the Salvation Army. The shelter opens in the evening on nights where the “feel-like” temperature is 20°, which will be increasing to “feels-like” 25° next season. There are 25 pre-made beds available and local churches supply dinner for the guests. Last winter during the 2021/22 season, the Severe Weather Shelter was open 63 nights. The Salvation Army also has their everyday shelter and their “Living Room Project,” which serves as a drop-in shelter for the homeless during the week. In the Living Room, lunch is served every day, shower and laundry services are available, and a “one-stop-shop” allows for socialization and resource exploration. With this space, visitors can escape the cold during the day, no matter the temperature. Major Connie Higgins of the Wooster Salvation Army states, “The Living Room was created so the community could have a daily place to go inside.”

 

          Extreme heat has similar solutions. There is not currently a shelter or area solely dedicated to high temperatures like the Severe Weather Shelter, but the Living Room and the everyday shelter is open to give visitors access to air conditioning. Fortunately, Major Tim Higgins and Major Connie Higgins of the Wooster Salvation Army do not see high temperatures causing many issues in the community, especially with the resources available. However, another problem in the summer is the elevated number of storms. Protection from tornados and torrential storms is lifesaving and is an essential service provided by shelters. Regular storms can also cause major inconveniences for the unhoused population. As discussed in a previous article, a lack of storage for the homeless is a consistent problem in the community. Thus, smaller storms can cause belongings, such as important documents, to be damaged or destroyed – which is a serious complication for the homeless.

 

          The primary goal with extreme weather is to “get them out of the cold and heat,” as stated by Major Tim Higgins. Resources in the community provide another important element as well: socialization. Major Tim Higgins states, “the social aspect is really important - the community looks to each other as family and they all look out for each other.” The socialization opportunities provided by the shelters helps build connections and social support networks amongst the community - which is an unintended benefit of providing shelter.

 

          While there are many options for the unhoused population in extreme weather events, gaps still remain. Major Tim Higgins states, “the problem is the evening hours, where do they go from here?” While a few-hour gap may not seem important, in extreme weather, these voids can be dangerous as it leaves those without shelter exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. Thus, finding solutions to fill these time gaps are important, and potentially, lifesaving.

 

           A solution to fill these gaps is to increase the number of volunteers and resources at the shelters. Not having adequate support and funding is a prominent issue in shelters and is the main reason why many cannot stay open longer. By increasing the amount of help at shelters, the evenings gaps could be filled, and shelters could house more people. Also, creating public spaces for unhoused people can create more options when shelters are closed. For example, having public “rest stops” with air-conditioning and heating, or even just water, could provide short-term relief from the weather – without volunteers or high expenses. Additionally, by reducing the stigma around the homeless community, places like libraries, restaurants, or stores can be respite from the weather as well. Finding solutions is crucial, however, as shelter from extreme weather is a vital need for the homeless population.

 

 

          To financially support the local Severe Weather Shelter, click here. To volunteer, call United Way of Wayne and Holmes at 330-263-6363.


Source:

1. Carlozzi, Alexa, et al. “Interview with Salvation Army.” 1 June 2022.

Just Love: My United Way Wayne & Holmes Journey (Year One)

By Megan Wilson • February 3, 2025
Just Love: My United Way Wayne & Holmes Journey (Year One) By: Megan Wilson It's hard to believe a year has flown by since I took the plunge and joined the United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties team. This leap into the non-profit world has been more than just a job change; it's been a deeply personal journey of discovery and immense reward. I'm constantly struck by the incredible network of individuals, organizations, and businesses right here in our community, all working tirelessly to uplift the lives of our neighbors. The sheer dedication I see every day is truly inspiring. Before joining the team, I found myself searching for a way to make a real, tangible difference. I explored different paths, but the pull towards a career focused on helping others was undeniable. I yearned for work that resonated with my core values, something that allowed me to contribute to something bigger than myself. That search led me to United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties, an organization whose mission – mobilizing community resources to help people measurably improve their lives and partnering to identify and address pressing needs for long-term, sustainable solutions – spoke directly to my heart. Stepping into this role was, admittedly, a little daunting. My previous fundraising experience peaked with the Parent-Teacher Organization at my kids' elementary school! The scope of the work, coupled with the ambitious goals, made me wonder if I could truly make a difference. But I quickly found myself embraced by an amazing work environment – positive, fun, energetic, and truly uplifting. Our CEO, Katie Koglman, has cultivated a culture of empowerment, and her belief in what we can achieve is contagious. My colleagues have shown me the true meaning of teamwork, proving that together, we're capable of anything. That feeling of empowerment is invaluable. I'm incredibly passionate about the work we do at United Way Wayne & Holmes Counties, especially when it comes to supporting literacy. Programs like Reading Under the Lights and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which we both run and fund, are close to my heart. Providing free books to kids is such a powerful way to ignite a love of reading and set them up for future success. But our commitment to the community goes far beyond just books. Every dollar we raise stays right here in Holmes and Wayne Counties, directly impacting our neighbors and strengthening our community from within. We're not just behind-the-scenes fundraisers; we're actively involved in our communities, working alongside our partners to make a real difference in the lives of those around us.  This past year has been a whirlwind of learning, growth, and connection. I've gained a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our community, but even more importantly, I've witnessed the incredible resilience and generosity of its people. Our work wouldn't be possible without the support of our donors and partners. I'm so grateful to be part of this organization, working alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals. People often ask what we do. We're more than just fundraisers; we're connectors, unifiers, and problem-solvers, supporting vital services that strengthen our community. I'm excited to see what the next year brings and the continued positive impact we'll make together in Wayne and Holmes Counties. I absolutely Just, Love everything about my last year!

From Setbacks to Success

By Katie Koglman • January 31, 2025
From Setbacks to Success: My Goal Setting Journey, Part 1. Author: Katie Koglman It’s 2025, and I am coming off a year that fell short of my fundraising goals. Personally, this is very disappointing – because I like to win. Professionally, it ignites a fire in me to be better next year. There were many factors that contributed to the decline in fundraising revenue; death, economic uncertainty, and some high dollar “not this year” answers from otherwise faithful corporate donors. As I reflect on my own involvement, I question my role in the defeat. Did I ask enough? Did I stay focused? Can I say, I did everything in my power? The honest answer is no. I did A LOT, but I did not do everything in my power. Early in 2024, I set goals, and I stayed focused and on track until about May …then I got lazy in tracking and measuring my goals. I will not let that happen in 2025, and I will be accountable to you. I will update you on my goal progress in June 2025 and December 2025! I use a goal framework based partly on the book The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran. Not exactly how he does it, but a hybrid for sure. I start with a list of 30 things that I want in the coming year. This list of 30 is a combination of a brain dump and visioning exercises that I do annually. I write them all down and revisit them daily. This helps me clarify – turning dreams into reality with action items. The list is a combination of personal and professional items, like: 1. I want to hit 100% of our fundraising goal. 2. I want to gross $12,000 on the Wacky, Quacky Duck Derby. 3. I want to build a great bond with my granddaughter. 4. I want to retire in 10 years. 5. I want to continue to grow relationships in Holmes County and the four corners of Wayne County. And 25 more things that I want. This helps you turn what you want into actionable SMART goals. A SMART goal is: Specific: Your goals should be clear and well-defined. Avoid vague or general statements. Instead of saying “I want to continue to grow relationships in Holmes County” say “I want to meet at least 12 new contacts in Holmes County” or “I want to attend an event weekly in Holmes County” Measurable : How will you track your progress? Set quantifiable targets that allow you to monitor your achievements. Achievable: Set challenging but realistic goals. Avoid setting yourself up for failure by aiming too high. Break down large goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Relevant: Ensure your goals align with personal or organizational mission Time-bound: Set deadlines for your goals. Now this is where I use items from the 12-week year: I look at my list of 30 and decide which 3-5 to focus on for the next 12 weeks and set up my actionable plan. I will use the Wacky, Quacky Duck Derby goal as an example and show you what my plan looks like. By increasing the amount of money we raise on the duck derby, this also grows our overall market share of donors.

2025 Grant Application Available

By Kayley Cox • October 17, 2024
As part of the annual community grant funding each year, the 2025 Grant Applications through United Way Wayne and Holmes Counties (UWWH) have now been made available. UWWH offers grant funding towards needs based requests. In the last decade, UWWH has granted over $14 Million to solving local issues through partnerships with local non-profits. The grant application window will be open from October 1, 2024 with applications due no later than end of business December 13, 2024. The grant application allows UWWH to directly assist local nonprofits in Holmes and Wayne Counties, directly working towards their mission to mobilize community resources while improving the lives of people in the community. Local community members assist in the review of completed grants as part of the “Investment Team” as volunteers and UWWH donors who review each grant application. Investment Team volunteers provide funding recommendations to the UWWH Board of Directors. United Way Wayne and Holmes aims to measurably improve the lives of residents in our community, often those who are employed, but still are income constrained. Four areas of focus guide UWWH in their mission to assist these community members: Health/Mental Health/Substance Abuse Treatment, Safety Net/Basic Needs, Workforce Development and Youth Development. Grant applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements to apply: Be an organization meeting one of the following criteria: A 501(c)3 nonprofit currently registered with the Secretary of State of Ohio. A governmental organization, such as public education institution, voluntary associations, or faith-based community. Run by a volunteer Board of Directors, none of whom receives any remuneration from the organization. Currently be located within, and providing services in Wayne and/or Holmes Counties. A question-and-answer session on the application process will be held at UWWH located at 215 S. Walnut St., Wooster on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 11 AM and again at 4 PM. Applicants are encouraged to attend. A virtual option is available, please call the office for details. The application deadline is 5 PM on the evening of December 13, 2024. Awards will be announced in March 2025. Organizations who have questions may contact United Way via email: info@uwwh.org or by phone: (330) 264-5576. Application is available at: uwwh.org or go to GET FUNDING .
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