Winter Relief Emergency Shelter

Two women hug. People who are homeless often are isolated from others. Winter Relief volunteers provide a listening ear and a chance for people to socialize.
Two small children serve food to an older man. Two adults are helping the children. Winter Relief is an opportunity for families to serve and help others together.

About Winter Relief

The Winter Relief Program provides emergency shelter to men and women who are homeless during the winter months. In partnership with over 40 houses of worship, the program provides shelter, food, and social and spiritual support during the coldest months of the year. The program runs approximately 26 weeks each winter.  

Hosted at different Anne Arundel County Houses of Worship each week from late October through March, the shelter is a safe and comfortable refuge. Host sites provide guest services, meals, companionship, activities, and spiritual guidance during their designated week. Arundel House of Hope staff provides coordination, support services, and case management to guests.  

History of Winter Relief

The Winter Relief program started in 1992 when twelve churches came together with the mission to help the homeless. The program has been operational each year since. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the program transitioned to a hotel-based emergency shelter. In 2022, local congregations again began hosting Winter Relief in their buildings. 

Of the twelve original host sites in 1992, five churches continue to host Winter Relief each year: Harundale Presbyterian Church, Linthicum Heights United Methodist, Pasadena United Methodist, Saint Bernadette Catholic, and Saint Christopher Episcopal. 

A table set with green and white paper placemats. There is a vase of fresh flowers and salt and pepper on the table. Winter Relief volunteers and guests eat dinner together.
A table with a white table cloth. The center piece is a white handle with greenery at the base with a small nutcracker statue of a sailor at a steering wheel. Each winter relief host cite decorates and adds comforting touches to their buildings when hosting people experiencing homelessness.

Interested in Joining Winter Relief?

Winter Relief accepts men and women who are 18+ years old. The following eligibility requirements and agreements apply: 

  • May not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 
  • May not have open warrants. 
  • May not be on the sex offender registry. 
  • Agree to follow all program policies, procedures, guidelines, and a daily breathalyzer test. 

To join the Winter Relief program, please call Coordinated Entry to complete a screening at 410-417-7260. You’ll be asked to leave your name and contact information, and they will return your call to complete an eligibility screening. You may also learn more by visiting our Resource and Day Center. 

Interested in Hosting Winter Relief?

Hosting Winter Relief as a congregation or organization is a unique opportunity for community members to reach out and serve their community. Learn how your congregation or organization can host Winter Relief here. 

a volunteer and board member, Sandy smiles while a man in the background prepares a meal. They are standing in a kitchen.
Two women and three men stand in a row smiling. Winter Relief volunteers dedicate many hours planning and executing the emergency shelter program in Anne Arundel County called Winter Relief
Winter Relief Volunteers

7164 East Furnace Branch Rd.

Suite A

Glen Burnie, Md 21060