KHQ Right Now - News and Weather for Spokane and North Idaho | Spokane Homeless Women's Shelter in Urgent Need of Blankets

Spokane Homeless Women's Shelter in Urgent Need of Blankets

Spokane, Wash.-The Hope House emergency women's shelter is in urgent need of twin-sized blankets. Donations can be brought directly to the shelter (111 W Third Ave) weekdays between the hours of 9am and 5pm or to Volunteers of America/Crosswalk (525 W Second Ave) at any time. Questions can be directed 509.455.2886.

"There are so many dangers to women's health and safety on the streets. It might seem strange, but a blanket can make a big difference," says Rusty Barnett, director of the Hope House shelter. "When a woman comes to Hope House looking for a safe, warm place to sleep, wrapping a blanket around her shoulders warms her body and her heart. Right now, we really need blankets and other items that we give out."

The shelter also offers food and hygiene items to anyone who stops by-whether they stay in the shelter or not. In addition to blankets, the shelter is in urgent need of personal items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene items, shampoo and conditioner (large bottles are especially helpful), deodorant and razors.

There are nearly 2,000 homeless single women in Spokane.* The risk to health and well-being of vulnerable homeless women is exacerbated during times of extreme temperatures. Named for the refuge it provides, Hope House is the only shelter in the Spokane area that offers refuge from the dangerous streets to any woman over the age of eighteen, regardless of her mental health status, chemical dependency issues or lifestyle. Thirty-four shelter beds are available each night. Each woman receives personal care including: nutritious food; a hot shower; clean, dry clothing; hygiene items; a warm bed; onsite case management; resource information; and referrals to community resources.

Originally known as the Downtown Women's Shelter, Hope House was founded in response to the 1997 serial murders of women on the streets of Spokane to offer women protection from violence on the street. Operated by Volunteers of America since 2001, Hope House offers an environment of dignity, respect and compassion that honors the intrinsic value and unique experience of every woman. Further information about Hope House can be found at www.voaspokane.org.