Cedar Rapids overflow shelter seeks supplies, volunteers

CEDAR RAPIDS - Officials with the Community Overflow Shelter are asking for donations of supplies to keep the shelter running this season.

For the past two winters, the Linn County Continuum of Care has activated its Community Overflow Weather Shelter System on nights when the temperature dropped below a certain mark - 32 degrees last year - and regular shelters were full.

This year, the organization plans to keep the overflow shelter open through March 15 regardless of temperatures. It opens only when regular shelters are at capacity.

The shelter, housed this year at 505 33rd Ave. SW in Cedar Rapids, opened Nov. 15. Already, the overflow shelter has served 187 unique visitors, with the most individuals on one night topping out at 51 people.

Agencies involved in the Continuum of Care put out a call for supplies earlier in the season, but they still are in need of some basic supplies, according to a news release. Monetary donations also are welcomed.

'Thanks to an amazing outpouring from our community, we no longer need sheets and blankets, but we do need cots,” said Alicia Faust, support services manager at Willis Dady Homeless Services, the agency that staffs the overflow shelter.

Other items needed are:

' New or gently used pillows and pillow cases

' Toilet paper and paper towels

' Extra-large trash bags and cleaning supplies

' Disposable coffee cups

' Bus tickets

Faust said they also are searching for volunteers to work an overnight shift at the shelter, as well as volunteers to do laundry and clean.

'We would love anyone who wants to help with laundry,” Faust said in the news release. 'With an average of 40 clients per night, that translates into a lot of sheets and pillow cases to be washed, dried and folded.”

Those interested in volunteering or donating can contact Willis Dady at (319) 362-7555. To schedule a donation drop-off contact Faust at (319) 651-8545.

l Comments: (319) 368-8516; makayla.tendall@thegazette.com