2023-2024 Shelter Season
8in8 Drive
Donation Drive Timeline:
September to October, 2023
Special Incentive:
Donate all 8 items on our wish list and be entered in a drawing for a $100 prize!
Drawing Date:
October 29, 2023
Warm Hearts, Warm Lives: Join Our 2023-2024 Winter Donation Drive
October:
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Week of 10/1: Granola Bars
Quick and nutritious bites for those on the go. -
Week of 10/8: Cup of Soups
Warm, simple, and comforting meals. -
Week of 10/15: Paper Towels
For cleanliness and hygiene. -
Week of 10/22: Toilet Paper
Basic yet essential for everyday dignity.
10/11/2023 Volunteer Training from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Join us for our annual volunteer training. Click here for more information.
General Shelter Information
Making Winter Warmer for Springfield's Vulnerable Residents
During the challenging winter months, Unity of Springfield transforms into an overnight crisis cold weather shelter, offering refuge and care for Springfield's vulnerable population. From October 15 to March 31, our doors are open on days when weather conditions pose a serious risk to unsheltered individuals. We invite the compassionate Springfield community to join us in our endeavor to provide vital support to those most in need.
Proud Partnerships
In our mission to offer comprehensive services, we are proud to partner with the Community Partnership of the Ozarks and The Connecting Grounds.
Inclusivity and Openness
We are an all-genders shelter committed to providing a safe haven for everyone—couples, families, and individuals alike. Our philosophy is one of nondiscrimination, embracing all regardless of race, ethnicity, age*, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, economic status, or any other aspect of background or identity.
* Note: While we provide a secure environment, we can only accept minors when accompanied by a parent or guardian. For unsheltered minors in need of shelter, there are specialized social services programs available.
Volunteer Opportunities for the Winter Months
Unity of Springfield is actively looking for volunteers to make our Crisis Cold Weather Shelter run smoothly and warmly. We have four different types of volunteer opportunities available:
1. Laundry Transport
Role: We need reliable volunteers to handle our laundry logistics with Enterprise Laundry Services, which is conveniently located just 1.3 miles away from Unity.
Responsibilities:
- Pick up dirty laundry from the church around 7:00 AM.
- Drop off dirty laundry at Enterprise Laundry Services.
- Pick up clean laundry from Enterprise.
- Return clean laundry to the church.
2. Sanitation
Role: Sanitation volunteers play an essential part in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of our shelter.
Responsibilities:
- Arrive by 7:00 AM at Unity of Springfield.
- Clean the shelter area, bathrooms, and other common spaces.
- All cleaning supplies are provided by the shelter.
- The cleaning typically takes between 1-2 hours.
3. Hospitality
Role: Hospitality volunteers set the tone for our guests by creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Responsibilities:
- Arrive at the shelter by 6:00 PM.
- Set up the shelter space for guests.
- Make coffee and stock the snack cart.
- Greet guests as they arrive.
4. Overnights
Role: Overnight volunteers ensure that our guests have a secure and restful night.
Responsibilities:
- Arrive by 7:30 PM and assist guests in getting settled.
- Lights usually turn off by 9:30 PM.
- Coordinate overnight hours among volunteers to ensure each gets some rest.
- Stay until the guests depart, typically by 7:30 AM the next day.
Mat-Making Initiative: Crafting Comfort for the Unsheltered
Do you have a crafty side? Join our community of compassionate crafters who meet twice a week to weave mats for Springfield's unsheltered population. Using upcycled plastic bags, we transform "waste" into comfort, creating durable mats that offer both insulation and cushioning for those in need.
We meet on Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Saturdays from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Unity of Springfield.
No experience is required, and we offer training on making "plarn" (plastic bag yarn) and weaving mats. Be a part of our ambitious goal to create 100 mats in 100 days, and make a tangible difference in someone's life. Learn More
Why We Shelter
A message from our minister.
Sunday Service
Food Pantry
Prayer
Other Resources
