Rotating Men's Shelter
“The broadest, and maybe the most meaningful definition of volunteering: Doing more than you have to because you want to, in a cause you consider good. ”
– Ivan Scheier
First Reformed Church participates in a rotating Men's Shelter in the winter months to serve our community in need. This year, FRC will be hosting the following two weeks:
January 8-14, 2023
February 5-11, 2023
We are need in of over-night volunteers to help run this program smoothly, and that is where YOU come in! Please use the form below to let us know what nights you are available.
First Reformed Church
9 Bayard Street, New Brunswick NJ 08901
732-545-1005
FAQ
What does a typical volunteer shift look like?
Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6:30. Set-up is very light but includes making sure the heat, lights, snacks, and general room is ready. Doors open to the shelter guests at 7:00pm. Lights out and doors locked at 10pm to allow for a quiet environment for guests to rest. Volunteers at our site are able to use our church office space to set up their own sleeping bag or air mattress and while it is typical to be able to sleep volunteers are asked to keep the door to the main room open during the shift to monitor the space. A typical night is pretty quiet and allows for volunteers to rest, read or get their own work done. Lights go on at 6:00am and volunteers put out a simple continental breakfast. Shelter guests must leave by 7:00am and once doors are closed and locked volunteers may leave.
Do I need to bring anything?
You are not required to bring anything other than your own reading, knitting, or other work. Wi-fi Internet, water, and coffee will be provided.
What are the qualifications to volunteer?
All volunteers must be over the age of 18 and physically able to be present and awake during the volunteer shift.
Who are the guests of the rotating men’s shelter?
The guests in the shelter are coordinated through multiple sources including the city and county service providers. Most guests are working individuals who need a safe quiet place to spend the night during the winter months. The guests are vetted and only guests on the approved list provided by the county are permitted on premises for the safety of both the other guests and the volunteers.
If I want to volunteer but can’t do this location, are there other locations?
This service is provided by multiple faith based organizations in New Brunswick throughout the winter. If you cannot volunteer during the weeks listed above you can reach out to any of the following for additional volunteer opportunities:
TBA
I can’t volunteer but would like to donate.
You can make a donation directly to FRC with the note “Rotating Men’s Shelter.” Funds are used to provide light refreshments and cleaning supplies.