Cold Weather Shelter Needs

St. Matthew’s has paired up with Hillsborough Presbyterian church and the county to offer emergency shelter to those unhoused in our community when the temperature drops below 32 degrees this fall and winter. When needed, the county will notify us and use the fellowship space to set up cots and provisions for a warm place where people can stay the night. They provide the set up, clean up, and all the support; and the churches provide the space and hospitality with special thanks to Ellen McRae and others who have helped make this possible here.

There are some needs though that St. Matthew’s parishioners can help with: meals that can be prepared ahead of time and in our freezer if needed. And toiletries to make “kits” to be given out, sponsored by Daughters of the King. Please read below to find out more about helping:.

For meals, please sign up here:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0545A5AC2DA7FDC34-59325156-occold

Hyperlink - Link to Food Service SignUp Genius

And for donations for toiletries kits, organized by Daughters of the King, please read below:

The Daughters of the King have committed to making personal hygiene overnight bags to be given out to the homeless people who come to stay at the Cold Weather Shelter this winter at St. Matthews. 

Why Overnight Bags

Imagine arriving at a shelter with nothing but the clothes on your back. The simple gift of an overnight bag—filled with essentials like soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, and a warm pair of socks—can offer more than just physical relief. It can restore a sense of humanity, dignity, and hope.  These bags are not just about hygiene; they are about healing. They say, “You matter. You are seen. You are loved.”

We invite all members of St. Matthews to join us in this service project by contributing donation items for us to fill the bags.  There will be a box labeled “DOK Donation” in the lobby area outside of Sonja’s office where you can drop off your donation.

Items Needed (Travel Size Only Requested):

• Toothbrushes & toothpaste

• Soap & shampoo

• Deodorant

• Feminine hygiene products

• Socks & underwear (new)

• Combs & brushes

• Travel-size lotion

• Washcloths & hand towels

• Gallon size ziploc bags

Let’s come together to bless others with the same compassion and care we’ve received. One bag, one item, one act of kindness at a time.  

Amen!