Springfield, Mo. – As winter settles over the Ozarks, a coalition of faith groups, nonprofits and volunteers is stepping up to keep the region’s most vulnerable safe from the cold. The Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO) is running the Crisis Cold Weather Shelter (CCWS) program, which will provide emergency overnight shelter on any night between November 1 and March 31 when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures of 32 °F or lower between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m.
How the program works
People in need can call a dedicated hotline at 417‑290‑3110 to learn whether any of the participating locations will be open that night. An automated message, updated each morning around 9 a.m., provides the latest status. Detailed sign‑up instructions, transportation options and other logistics are posted on the program’s website at cpozarks.org/ccws.
Participating shelters and services
For the 2026‑27 season, the network includes East Sunshine, Fairbanks, Unity, Grace, Harbor House and Sacred Heart/Christ Episcopal. Each site serves specific populations – some focus on men, others on women, couples or families with pets – ensuring that a wide range of needs are met. When extreme cold or severe weather strikes, additional locations may open to expand capacity.
Recurring overnight stays
Unlike previous years, the program is moving away from daily sign‑ups. Instead, shelters will arrange recurring overnight stays whenever beds are available. This change, CPO says, streamlines access for those seeking shelter and helps volunteers and staff manage resources more efficiently.
Impact from the prior season
During the 2025‑26 cold‑weather season, the network delivered 9,100 bed‑nights over 52 nights, averaging about 175 guests each night. More than 400 volunteers contributed their time and effort, underscoring the community’s commitment to caring for its neighbors during harsh weather.
Roots of the initiative
The CCWS program began as an effort of the Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness, with the City of Springfield serving as the alliance’s lead agency. Community Partnership of the Ozarks now coordinates day‑to‑day operations, bringing together churches, charities and civic groups in a unified response to winter homelessness.
How you can help
Residents who wish to support the effort can volunteer, donate supplies or contribute financially through the participating shelters’ individual channels. The program’s success relies on the generosity of local families, businesses and faith communities, all united by a shared commitment to protect the most vulnerable during the cold months.
For the latest shelter status, call the hotline or visit the CCWS website. Together, Springfield can ensure that no one has to face freezing temperatures alone.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
