Abode Services Calls for Winter Weather Donations

Submitted by Abode Services:

FREMONT – While the weather outside is not as frightfully freezing as it has been in recent weeks, the stubbornly low overnight temperatures offer a vivid reminder of the need for warmth.

Unfortunately, for many living in Alameda and Santa Clara counties, warmth is a luxury out of their reach.

Abode Services is helping to provide that basic need to more than 4,000 children and adults who are currently or formerly homeless and very low-income, and is asking the community for help. Abode Services needs donations to ensure everyone living in the Bay Area can stay warm for the holidays and through the new year.

As the freezing temperatures of early December proved, life without a home can be deadly. At least six homeless people in the Bay Area lost their lives since Thanksgiving due to cold overnight temperatures.

A simple donation of a cold-weather sleeping bag, a new pair of gloves or a knit cap can make a difference in the lives of those most in need. Donations of gift cards, transportation funds or simple monetary contributions will also help our community bring an end to homelessness.

Here’s how you can help:

• Bring cold-weather donations that are new or in very good condition to Sunrise Village Emergency Shelter from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays or from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.on the weekend. The shelter is located at 588 Brown Road in Fremont.

• Pick up a $25 gift card while waiting in a check-out line during a holiday shopping trip. Cards to stores such as Target, Safeway or Payless Shoe Source help families purchase the items they need the most.

• Visit our wish list at www.abodeservices.org for more ideas on what is needed.

• Double a monetary donation by visiting our website www.abodeservices.org and donating online. All new or increased donations are being matched by the generosity of the Sobrato Family Foundation.

About Abode Services

Abode Services’ mission is to end homelessness by assisting low-income, un-housed people, including those with special needs, to secure stable, supportive housing; and to be advocates for the removal of the causes of homelessness.

Abode Services’ programs combine housing and services to help homeless families and individuals in Alameda and Santa Clara Counties establish stability and independence. These programs include emergency services, permanent housing, and support services (such as case management, vocational counseling, life skills training, veteran services, and children’s programs).

In FY13, we improved the lives of 4,051 adults and children across our programs.