Contact:
Keylee Marineau, Homeless and Affordable Housing Coordinator, (360) 490-5910, or email: keylee.marineau@co.thurston.wa.us 

OLYMPIA – The National Weather Service has issued a forecast for below freezing nighttime weather patterns in the Puget Sound from February 22, 2022 to February 26, 2022. In response, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services is issuing a “Hazardous Weather” advisory to increase shelter-in-place efforts and offer extended nightly shelter beds starting on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 through Friday, February 25, 2022 nightly from 8pm through 8am. 

Extended overnight shelter beds will be provided for single adults over the age of 18 at First Christian Church located at 701 Franklin St SE, Olympia, WA 98501 starting on Wednesday night. Shelter-in Place survival gear distribution in unsheltered communities will begin Tuesday, February 22, 2022 and will be ongoing throughout the week.

County, city, and local advocacy and non-profit organizations have been working together as the Hazardous Weather Task Force (HWTF) to address harsh weather conditions and its effects on vulnerable unsheltered populations. The HWTF developed the hazardous weather response model to be enacted during extremely cold or hazardous weather conditions. 

During a hazardous weather response, organizations, including HWTF members, take special measures to keep people who are homeless safe by expanding shelter services to accommodate the increased need. In addition, the HWTF is empowered to distribute shelter-in-place supplies, such as blankets and water, to those in the homeless community who are unable to leave their location. 

During this hazardous weather activation period, shelter options are available at the Union Gospel Mission, 413 Franklin St NE, Olympia for single men and women. St. Michael’s Parish for single men with proof of vaccination. Family Support Center’s Pear Blossom Place, 837 7th Ave. SE, Olympia, is available for families with children needing shelter and Community Youth Services, 520 Pear Street SE, Olympia, is available for youth ages 18-24.  

Donations of blankets, twin/single bed sheets, ramen, non-perishable snacks, coffee, creamer, hot tea, hot chocolate, disposable cups and utensils, socks, long johns, underwear, tarps, ponchos, hand warmers, sleeping bags, tents, gloves/mittens, hats, warm clothing are needed. Donations will be accepted at 108 State street, Olympia Wednesday, 2/23 - Friday, 2/25 10am – 12pm. Volunteers for shelter set-up and morning cleaning shifts can contact Keylee Marineau at 360-490-5910 or Keylee.marineau@co.thurston.wa.us. 

For more information about homelessness in Thurston County, visit this page.

-30-