The Astoria Warming Center began in November 2014 in response to citizens’ concerns that there was no warming center in Astoria to provide a safe, warm place for the homeless population in the city during severe weather. With a City Council member’s leadership, a group of community volunteers organized and began to operate the center during the first winter season in a vacant city-owned building. The 100% volunteer effort continued for a second season in 2015 after the First United Methodist Church partnered with the center to provide a space in their parish hall during the severe weather season, and allowed the center to install a shower and laundry facility on their premises.
Fast forwarding to 2022, the AWC ended our 8th season on March 15th. We reopened for hygiene in June and are offering this every Monday and Thursday from 6-9pm. This is a vital resource where community members can take showers, get free clothing and supplies, or even just sit for a moment and have coffee and snacks. We plan to open for our regular season of overnight stays by Thanksgiving, November 24, 2022. |
“Take time daily to reflect on how much you have. It may not be all that you want but remember someone somewhere is dreaming to have what you have.”
― Germany Kent |