WICHITA, Kansas – As cold weather approaches, two local charities are expanding their winter‑time assistance for those in need. Second Light opened an emergency shelter on Sunday at 1026 N. Main Street and the Union Rescue Mission is preparing its year‑round facility for the season.
Second Light’s new winter shelter
Josh Siebenaler, executive director of Second Light, said the shelter has been operating since Sunday and is already serving about 90 people each night. “We’re working on expanding the number of beds,” Siebenaler added, noting that the shelter will remain open until March, with operations tied to temperature and weather conditions.
Second Light relies on community partnerships and welcomes both financial and in‑kind donations. “If there are folks, whether it be a community of neighbors or a church group, that would love to serve breakfast one day or lunch on the weekends, we’d love the opportunity to work with you,” Siebenaler said. He estimated the shelter could assist between 200 and 300 individuals over the winter, emphasizing the need for winter clothing, adult diapers and basic housing supplies for those transitioning to permanent homes.
Union Rescue Mission’s year‑round support
David Hodge, CEO of the Union Rescue Mission, reported that the mission currently has about 40 beds available, with the capacity to expand to 105 if needed. On Sunday, roughly 84 people sought shelter there. Hodge said the mission is conducting an inventory of food supplies and is actively seeking donations of winter clothing and gloves.
“Everything we clothed the men in is pretty much donated,” Hodge explained, underscoring the vital role of local generosity in keeping the mission stocked for the colder months.
How to help
Both organizations provide clear ways for residents to contribute. Monetary donations to Second Light can be made at secondlightwichita.org/donate, and volunteers or item donors can email [email protected]. The Union Rescue Mission lists its giving options under the “Ways to Give” tab on its website at urmwichita.org.
Community members are encouraged to reach out to either shelter to learn more about specific needs, volunteer schedules and donation drop‑off locations. With the winter season fast approaching, the combined efforts of neighbors, churches and local businesses are essential to ensuring that Wichita’s most vulnerable citizens have a safe, warm place to stay.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.
