Help sought for opening night at La Crosse warming shelter

The temperature is on its way down, as forecasters predict highs in the low 40s for much of this week in the La Crosse area.

Friday the La Crosse warming shelter will open. It will remain open until April 30.

Desperate help is needed that night, Laticia Silva with Catholic Charities said.

“I think we have three people right now,” Silva said, hoping more will volunteer.

Silva said there’s a shift to help get people situated from 6:30-9 p.m. There is there’s an overnight shift from 9 p.m.-8 a.m. that is split up.”

Last winter, which was unbearably cold at times, 300 separate people used the services of the warming shelter. They often times exceeded the 40-person capacity, taking in 50 some nights.

Silva can tell the services are welcomed by those on the streets.

“They can get on a housing list when they get here,” Silva said. “We also offer a shower, laundry, and a hot meal.”

The warming center is always looking for donations, as well, including hand warmers, winterized gloves, and night items, like toothbrushes and toothpaste.

The warming center is located at 413 3rd Street South in La Crosse.