Seasonal Overnight Warming Center (OWC)
Mission Statement
The Overnight Warming Center (OWC) of UUCD is a social justice ministry of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of DeKalb. The OWC mission is to provide a safe, warm, and welcoming overnight haven for individuals and families who are unhoused and without adequate heat, and to providie them with a sense of belonging.
History
In January, 2024, the UUCD Board approved opening a free Overnight Warming Center in response to a proposal from Marreen Buntaine, Director of the Community Empowerment Campaign, and Dan Kenney, a member of the congregation. Since then, the OWC has offered services to unhoused individuals and those without adequate heating during the coldest nights of the year.
1,413 individuals were served with food or warm overnight stays.
386 received meals only
1,037 overnight stays
71 unique individuals received overnight warmth
51 unique individuals received meals only.
Each of the 74 nights breakfast was provided the next morning as well as food for lunches.
108 unique individuals received services
159 Community Volunteers helped with overnight shifts
59 Individuals, Organizations, and Businesses contributed warm meals.
