PORT TOWNSEND — The Jefferson County Winter Shelter in Port Townsend is beginning its 11th season earlier than usual this year, with a modified opening Nov. 1.
In the past, the seasonal shelter has opened the day after Thanksgiving.
While those in need of shelter will be able to get a free place to stay, it will be on a limited basis until the regular opening Nov. 22.
The preseason shelter will not have meal service, although snacks will be provided.
It will open daily at 6 p.m., with guests required to arrive before 7 p.m. and to leave by 7 a.m. the next morning, according to a news release.
The shelter is located in the basement of the American Legion, 209 Monroe St.
It is accessible through a door down a driveway on the building’s north side.
When full service begins, the shelter will open at 4 p.m. each day and offer full meals and other services.
At that time, guests must arrive by 5 p.m. and leave at 8 the following morning.
These services will extend to March 10, at which time it will shift back to limited services until closing for the season April 1.
Veterans are prioritized for service, as are physically disabled people, senior citizens and victims of domestic violence.
The winter shelter is operated through a partnership of the Community Outreach Association Shelter Team (COAST), Olympic Community Action Programs and the Marvin G. Shields American Legion Post 26.
The shelter is run by about 500 volunteers from faith-based communities, civic groups and businesses, as well as individuals.
The shelter served 100 people last season — the highest number yet, according to deForest Walker of COAST.
She added that November weather has been unpredictable in the past, and there have been many community requests to extend the time the shelter is open.
During the regular season, each guest receives a hot meal each night, breakfast and a bag lunch. Guests are not limited as to how many nights they can stay.
The shelter has two sections segregated for 22 men and six women, although the space can be rearranged to accommodate more women.
No one will be turned away from the shelter during a bad weather situation.
Last year, Walker said no one has been turned away because the shelter is over capacity.
The American Legion has provided the space for all but the first year of the shelter’s operation.
For more information, contact COAST at 360-531-0112.
Shelter guests who wish to contact staff directly should do so during open hours at 360-385-1403.
Families in need of shelter should contact OlyCAP at 360-385-2571, while domestic violence survivors needing housing can contact Dove House at 360-385-5292 or 360-385-5291.
Walker said financial contributions are especially welcome this year because of rising utility costs.
To contribute, call 360-796-0420.
Those without spare time or extra money can help in a small way by donating clean, warm socks, Walker said.