RENO, Nev. (775 Times, NV Globe) – Additional volunteers are required to assist the nighttime shifts in the warming center because a record number of persons are seeking refuge at the Night Off the Streets, Inc. (NOTS) Homeless Center.

“The number of people who have sheltered in the center has increased 31 percent over the same time last year,” said NOTS founder and president Deacon Craig Lagier of Carson City. “Additional volunteers will help us more smoothly welcome and set up sleeping spaces for our guests as well as serve as monitors during the night.”

Since the facility first opened during the winter season, about 40 visitors have stayed there each night. Because the shelter provides better protection for its visitors than it did last year, the number of women staying there has risen.

The age range of all visitors is 20 to 56 years old, which is higher than it was the previous year. Additionally, a rise of visitors above the age of retirement has been seen.

Each night, volunteers work three shifts. The first shift begins at 8:00 p.m., followed by the second and third shifts at 11:45 p.m. and 3:45 a.m., respectively. to 7:00 a.m.

Before working at the NOTS center, volunteers will undergo training and orientation on their roles and duties. In order to obtain further “on-the-job” training, first-time volunteers first serve alongside an experienced volunteer.

The NOTS warming station was established six years ago following the death of a homeless man from hypothermia while camped outside. Since the center’s inception, no one in Carson City has perished from exposure to the cold.

To assist in addressing the difficulties that led to becoming unhoused, NOTS attempts to link visitors with municipal authorities and other nonprofit groups. These challenges include health issues, trouble locating affordable housing, and misplaced paperwork needed for job interviews.

Contact NOTS at notscarson@outlook.com or 775-600-2632 for further details on how to volunteer or donate.

For additional information and to fill out a volunteer application, visit www.notscarson.org.

Credits: Fox Reno

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