“We’re already full,” says Warming Center After La Crosse Passes Camping Ban

Catholic Charities opened its Warming Center two weeks ago and is already feeling the effects of the City of La Crosse imposing a “no camping” ban.

During Week 1, the nonprofit had about 18 people a night seek overnight shelter. This past week, it has been full and turning people away.

The Warming Center opened Nov. 1 and will remain open every night until April 30. Doors open at 7 p.m., with everyone needing to be in by 8:30 p.m. — when the doors are locked.

Inside they receive dinner, a place to sleep, breakfast, and any clothing and warmth needs before they start the day the next morning. The first 34 individuals to arrive get in for the night.

Lacey Hein and Johnny Wadzinski joined the WIZM’s La Crosse Talk on Thursday to encourage volunteers to sign up, people to bring meals, and donations of clothing, cash, and cleaning products.

 La Crosse Talk airs weekdays at 6-9 a.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.

The two explained that the Warming Center does provide some classes such as recovery, breaking barriers, and mental health. People can get haircuts. But the difference between the Warming Center and the Salvation Army is that the Center provides overnight shelter while the Salvation Army provides 24 hours of service and support. Also, the Warming Center can’t allow in minors or people with special needs.

Asked why they do such tough work, Wadzinski said he loves the personalities. He reads the social media posts and recognizes there are “a few bad eggs in every bunch.” He sees humble people with dignity. He learns their trauma and tries to help them get out of the situation they are in.

Wadzinski tells the story of a person who got clean three years ago and routinely knocks on the window to give Johnny a hug on his way to work. He’s stayed clean.

Items needed at the shelter include:

• Gloves
• Socks
• Underwear
• Shoes of all sizes
• Sweatpants
• Hoodies
• All mens clothing
• Coffee
• Cleaning Supplies – especially “Fabuloso Cleaner”
• Toiletries

To donate call Johnny at 608.769.4157 or leave a message or email Karla Hein at [email protected]

La Crosse Talk airs weekdays at 6-8 a.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.