Prince George's announces Warm Nights Program

 By Staff

Jan. 26, 2009, 1 a.m. - The Prince George 's County Interfaith community has announced the opening of the annual Warm Nights Program.

 "Warm Nights was started more than 20 years ago by the concerned and committed faith community to ensure additional opportunities for the homeless during the severely cold winter months," said Tim Jansen, executive director of Community Crisis Services that coordinates the 34 participating synagogues and churches across Prince George 's County.   

"The additional 50 shelter beds a week are only possible because the faith community in Prince George 's is committed to sharing and caring about others," said County Executive Jack B. Johnson.  During his Administration's tenure, Mr. Johnson has ensured an increase in the annual budget for homeless services to meet the annual increase in the homeless.   

 

A warm breakfast and dinner and safe clean sleeping accommodations are offered to all participants from Nov. 23 through mid April.  The program also offers transportation services, counseling, physical and mental health screening and linkages with appropriate supportive services throughout the community.

 

Karyn Lynch, director of the Prince George 's County Social Service agency, looks forward to this program each year. "Each year brings a new success story.  One year a participating church sponsored a wedding for a homeless couple, complete with a dress and reception and honeymoon.  Over the years we've helped countless County residents end the cycle of homelessness."

 

To access the services of the Warm Nights Program, please call the Homeless Hotline at 1-888-731-0999.