Northumberland puts out call for warming room volunteers this winter

Northumberland County is preparing for the snowy season and calling on residents to consider giving their time as volunteers for the warming room in Cobourg that opened as of Nov. 2. Pictured here are cars submerged after a historic dumping of snow last winter. /Sarah Hyatt photo

By reporter Natalie Hamilton

From having a cheerful chat to offering a hot drink, Northumberland County is calling on volunteers to lend a hand at its warming room in Cobourg. 

Northumberland County opened the overnight warming centre on Monday (Nov. 2) for people in need of escaping the season’s chilly nights. As the service opens, the county is inviting residents to consider applying to volunteer their time.

“Volunteers will provide hospitality-type supports, such as preparing refreshments, organizing donations, and engaging with clients in friendly conversation,” Kate Campbell, the county’s director of communications, told the Independent. “The warming room will be staffed with two personnel at all times.”

Located at 600 William St., the warming room is intended to provide a safe, heated overnight space for people experiencing homelessness during the colder months. It operates seven nights a week from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.

Volunteer duties include preparing and serving coffee, snacks and light refreshments, spending time with guests, and ultimately helping create a welcoming and respectful environment, noted the county.

“There are many different ways people can contribute, and we want to make volunteering accessible to anyone who has some time and wants to help,” said Bill Smith, the county’s manager of homelessness services, community and social services. “People can volunteer for an hour, an evening or whatever time works for them.

“There is no minimum time commitment. Sometimes something as simple as sitting down with someone, having a conversation and making them feel welcome can make a real difference.”

Those interested in applying to volunteer are asked to visit Northumberland.ca/Volunteer and complete a volunteer form.

The county said staff members will then follow-up with interested volunteers about the opportunity and arrange an interview to discuss the applicant’s interest and ensure the role is a good fit. The county will provide orientation and training.