Will Spring ever Spring?

The calendar tells me there are only a few weeks left in winter.

I'm not sure I believe it, though, because recently it was only a few degrees below zero and I don't think the universal weather patterns and systems pummeling Montana really care what my wall calendar smugly adheres to. If you've lived in this state long enough, you know that fixed dates on your daily Far Side calendar are no more than depressing reminders that while the rest of the country might play along nicely, the Treasure State follows its own rules. Its going to be cold for a while longer.

During the winter, Montana is not a destination state for the homeless. Some states (Arizona, Nevada, California, and Florida) have a climate conducive to living outdoors from November to April. Montana is not one of them. Think about what it feels like to spend a few minutes each morning scraping the ice off your car before you go to work or school (or both!). Its not the most enjoyable experience, but at least its fleeting because you get to eventually get into your heated-up automobile and drive off in style and comfort. You are given a 23 and a half hour respite from performing this task again.

But what if you were living in a camp somewhere and were forced to endure the elements on a more consistent basis? Many of our residents, at one time in their life, found themselves dealing with this exact scenario. Whether they were living in a tent or camper or even someplace unintended for human habitation (under a bridge or outside), they hunkered down and weathered the snow, cold, and ice because they had no choice. Our shelter can only hold a certain amount of people and once that number is maxed out, there is no place for them to go.

One way we try to help these people is by providing supplies. We are always on the lookout for sleeping bags and gear that will help people survive outdoors in inclement weather. It is not uncommon for people to stop by and ask for supplies even if they aren't staying with us, and we do what we can to accommodate those in need. We rely greatly on the kindness and generosity of our supporters in the community. We gladly accept donations that can mean the difference between life and death for so many people in Montana.

If you are interested to donating supplies or finances, please drop the shelter and talk to us or call for more information. Thank you so much for your help!