EDITOR’S NOTE: This post has been updated with the correct date.
The Burien Severe Weather Shelter will open this Tuesday, Feb. 17 in response to incoming cold weather and a possible snow forecast, organizers announced.
According to the Burien Severe Weather Shelter team, the shelter will open through at least Thursday night, with future plans dependent on weather conditions.
“The cold weather is coming with possible snow in the forecast,” the Shelter Team said in its message to supporters.
Organizers said additional volunteer spots and needed donation items have been added to the online sign up page.
The Burien Severe Weather Shelter (BSWS) is a low-barrier shelter, meaning that all are welcome and no one will be turned away as long as they follow shelter rules. They work with the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) and the City of Burien Emergency Management Department to develop guidelines for opening our doors to the public based on temperature, air quality, wind chill, and precipitation. The shelter is open from 7 p.m. – 9 a.m. during severe weather only.
How to Help
The shelter team also addressed confusion about donation drop off procedures, saying updated information has been provided and improved door signage is being installed to help donors find the correct entrance.
“There has been some confusion about where to bring your donations, so we have updated this document and are working on better door signage to ensure you can find the correct door with someone to greet you,” the Shelter Team said. “As always, we ask that you please not leave donations by the door.”
Organizers thanked the community for ongoing support.
“We are so grateful to our community for all you do to help keep our neighbors safe and warm and fed,” the Shelter Team said.
Community members with questions or those interested in volunteering or donating can email shelter.highlineumc@gmail.com, or visit the Burien Severe Weather Shelter Sign Up page here.
The shelter is held at Highline United Methodist Church at 13015 1st Ave S., Burien, WA 98168:
