Inside-Out Ministries opens as warming station

(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – During this week’s frigid temperatures, Inside-Out Ministries has opened its doors as a warming station.

Inside-Out will be open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The facility’s address is 103 Gin Oaks Court in Madison, which is one street south of Main Street.

“We are not a shelter and do not have showers or amenities available for use. Again, we offer a place to get out of the cold,” co-founder Larry Ward said.

“We have only sleeping on the floor, but we have made it available from Thursday, Jan. 23 until Saturday morning, Jan. 25,” Ward said.

Volunteers are needed to help out. “We’ll need hot foods in crockpots and drinks,” Ward said.

To accommodate visitors with refreshments, the staff needs heavy-duty bowls, spoons, Styrofoam cups and plates. “Please let us know if you are available and what you can provide.”

Inside-Out needs about six volunteers to stay onsite during each of the rotating four-hour shifts.

Residents can deliver supplies to 103 Gin Oaks Court. “Church partners, we need you,” Ward said. “We can’t do this alone and won’t be able to do it without your help.”

Inside-Out, a 501(c) 3 charity, unites churches, individuals and the community. The all-volunteer organization doesn’t pay salaries and has low overhead.

Founders Larry and Deborah Ward accept applications from residents who have needs for clothing, utility payments, appliances, furniture and housing. “We were drawn to share resources God has put at our disposal and to seek out others who had a heart for helping,” she said.

To volunteer, call 256-325-5193. For more information, visit inside-outministries.org.