Shelters Prepare for Winter

Shelters around the state prepare for families in need during the colder months The Emergency Cold Weather Shelter System has opened in Anchorage. Families seeking shelter are encouraged to dial 2-1-1, an Alaska-specific helpline that connects Alaskans with services, providers and other resources in their community. The emergency system in Anchorage provides additional shelter to families with children when other shelters are at capacity. 

“Providing emergency housing is the first step on the journey for these families,” said Danna Larson, a volunteer and faith formation director at First Presbyterian Church of Anchorage. 

The system is operated by a network of local churches, Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis, Municipality of Anchorage and United Way of Anchorage. 

United Way of Anchorage reports that last winter, 2,023 shelter nights were provided to 84 families that included 131 children.