Jefferson City Room at the Inn looking for more volunteers

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Jefferson City overnight shelter is in need of more helping hands.

Organizers of Jefferson City Room at the Inn express working with the homeless is rewarding, but it also involves facing challenges such as dealing with mental illness, addiction, and the diverse struggles and traumas that are connected to homelessness.

In the shelter's third season of operation, Sarah Hamilton started the role of chair in the second week of December. Despite being in the position for less than two months, she expressed confidence in the organization's current state. However, she acknowledges the need for additional hands-on support.

"We're starting to have to put more pleas out on Facebook and on email saying, 'Hey, we've got some shifts open, please, please come and help us,' " said Hamilton.

As the season progresses, the demand for the shelter's services increases. Some of the dedicated volunteers find themselves taking on extra shifts to keep the doors open.

"But as we get further into the season, folks are getting busy, and some of our regular volunteers are having to pick up more shifts because just so we can stay open," said Hamilton.

The facility offers 20 beds. Each bed is equipped with a pillow, and bins of blankets are available for guests to wrap themselves in.

Bed occupancy fluctuates, with the beds being filled three or four times a week. Unfortunately, at times, organizers have to turn away individuals.

"It just depends. Last night, we had five empty beds. The night before, we turned away four people," said Hamilton.

The harsh cold weather not only attracts more guests but also prompts organizers to adjust operational hours in the best interest of the guests.

"We've been fuller. We have more folks. As it's gotten colder now, we actually decided to stay open all day on Martin Luther King Day because that's a holiday, and the library is closed too, all of the churches and other businesses where they could stay warm," said Hamilton.

The shelter does not accommodate children due to the absence of background checks for guests. Families with children can find shelter at the Salvation Army.

Jefferson City Room at the Inn hours:

• Evening shift: 5:30 p.m - 11:30 p.m.
• Overnight shift: 11:00 p.m - 5:30 a.m.
• Morning shift: 5:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m.

For more information, visit their page on Facebook.