EDITORIAL: The area's only warming shelter needs help

This is not a time to sleep outside overnight. Not with single-digit temperatures on the way. Such conditions are life threatening. Yet, some may have no choice. 

Officials with St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho fear the nonprofit’s warming shelter in Post Falls may reach capacity soon. That capacity is only 25. It’s been close. Beyond that, the shelter can’t accept more guests, which could leave some without a roof over their heads and out in the cold. Right now, the cold could threaten someone's life.

No one wants that to happen. 

If you can donate food, clothing, sleeping bags or money to the warming shelter, please do. It costs close to $1,000 a night to operate the shelter, and St. Vincent’s expects to spend nearly $100,000 before this winter is over. That’s a lot of money for an organization that is far from flush with cash.  

Those who come to its shelter often don’t have much. A hat, jacket and gloves could make all the difference in the world. Food could provide a meal where they otherwise might go without. A sleeping bag might help them survive the bitter cold. 

We admit this is a big ask, but perhaps churches could work with St. Vincent’s and to keep their doors open and provide a warm, safe place for some to sleep. This would require churches and St. Vincent’s coordinating on transportation, bedding, volunteers and hours of operation. If it comes down to it, they certainly have the collective wisdom to figure out a way to do it. 

This warming center isn’t exactly a hotel room. It offers the basics. Couches. TV. Table and chair. Kitchen. Restrooms. It is the only game around here when it comes to a warming shelter. There isn’t a second or third choice. That’s surprising, given the generosity of this community in responding to the needs of its residents and visitors. 

Scott Ferguson, St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho executive director, said they would welcome partners to serve the homeless population. We hope many will step up. Lives could depend on it.

Recently, homeless waited outside for shelter doors to open at 6 p.m. One pushed a grocery cart of goods and stood with her dog. Two shared a blanket. Another shuffled his feet as he tried to stay warm. It's a tough spot to be in.

If you can support the warming shelter during this cold snap, please do. Donations can be dropped off at St. Vincent’s Help Center in Coeur d’Alene.