Tedford Housing’s overnight Warming Center serves as a safe space for our unhoused and unsheltered neighbors (including families and pets) in the Mid Coast region to stay warm during the winter months. This is a low-barrier program, which means the requirements to enter the center are minimal, we emphasize harm reduction principles, and uphold a high standard of safety. Using low-barrier and harm reduction principles allows us to provide a space for our most vulnerable neighbors by recognizing that many of our guests have complex needs and behaviors related to mental illness, substance use, trauma, and systemic injustice.
As a Warming Center host, volunteers will support staff by attending to and serving the evening meal and addressing the needs of the kitchen. They will help set a tone of hospitality and create a welcoming, nourishing space as guests arrive. Volunteers will be based in the kitchen, while staff are in the common spaces assisting guests in getting settled for the evening. The role will require an orientation, provided by Tedford staff.
Host Responsibilities Include:
Representing Tedford Housing with professionalism, dignity, and pride
Setting up and serving dinner and coffee
Keeping kitchen clean and organized, including dishwashing, readying for the next day
Other kitchen related responsibilities
Commitment:
Seasonal (Nov 15-May 1)
At least one 3-hour (approx. 3:45-6:45pm) once-a-week shift for the entirety of the season, preferably the same day
Arrive on time
Qualities:
18 years or older
Able to pass a background check
Empathetic, non-judgmental, patient
Solid understanding of the boundaries, confidentiality, and care needed in a low barrier setting
Ability to de-escalate small conflicts and respond to guests with courtesy and empathy
Tolerance for being around individuals experiencing symptoms of mental illness or substance use disorder including intoxication
