Warming shelter to remain open through April

Catholic Charities has announced it will keep the Rochester Community Warming Center open through the end of April.

The organization had originally planned to keep the center, located at 200 Fourth Street Southeast, open through March. However, its leaders say they have heard concerns among community members and recognize the potential for unfavorable weather into the early spring.

“Catholic Charities has been working closely with Olmsted County, key stakeholders and we have been able to create a plan that allows the Center to stay open an additional 30 days,” said Cathy Hunsaker, communications specialist of the Rochester Community Warming Center.

The warming center opened in December 2019 amid a community-wide push to do more to help the city’s homeless population. The space provides overnight shelter for up to 30-40 individuals a night.

In its first year of operation, Hunsaker said the center has been averaging between 22 to 26 guests per night. Overall, a total of 147 unique individuals have checked into the shelter since its opening.

With the decision to stay open another month, the center is seeking additional volunteers to fill overnight shifts.

Additional information can be found on the center’s website.