CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — With winter temperatures rapidly approaching, Cunningham Township Supervisor’s Office (CTSO) has announced the opening of its Public Winter Emergency Shelter (PWES) to provide a safe space for unsheltered men in need of shelter during severe weather. The shelter, which will operate from November 24 through April 30, is set to offer critical overnight services to individuals facing homelessness in Champaign County.

Located at the Armory at Park and 2nd Street in Champaign, the shelter will be open seven nights a week, from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The shelter is equipped with 100 cots, with the capacity to expand to 176 cots if necessary, ensuring that individuals without stable housing have a warm and secure place to stay.

The shelter is a collaborative effort involving several local partners. CU Public Health will provide essential supplies, while Friend in Me will manage shelter staffing. Referrals and ongoing support will come from the City of Champaign Township. The initiative is funded through one-time winter shelter expansion funds from the Illinois Department of Human Services, U-C Friends Meeting, and Cunningham Township’s Angel Donors. Donations can be made at www.ctso.org.

Services and Support:

• Safe, overnight shelter with hot breakfast provided each morning

• Showers and access to transportation for jobs and services

• Health care services and case management to support long-term stability

• 100 cot beds, with the ability to expand capacity if needed

• Security measures, including cameras and regular staff checks

The shelter is open to adult men (including male-identified individuals) who are referred through Cunningham Township. Referrals can be made at the Cunningham Township Office (205 W. Green St., Urbana, 217-384-4144) or through STRIDES at 70 E. Washington St., Champaign.

Shelter rules emphasize safety and structure, including a no loitering policy and restrictions on drug and alcohol use on the premises. Additionally, no drop-offs will be allowed without prior written agreement, and no re-entry will be permitted after 10 p.m. Security cameras will be installed outside the building, and staff will conduct regular property checks.

How to Get Involved:

Cunningham Township is calling on the community to help in a variety of ways:

• Refer unsheltered residents to Cunningham Township or STRIDES for screening
• Donate to the Angel Donor Fund at www.ctso.org
• Donate food, toiletries, coats, and winter gear at Cunningham Township (205 W. Green St., Urbana)
• Volunteer or partner with CTSO by contacting Danielle Chynoweth at danielle@ctso.org

Facts About Homelessness in Champaign County:

• 82 residents of Champaign County are registered as unsheltered, including both adults and children
• The county has fewer emergency shelter beds than it did a decade ago
• National trends show that homelessness is at an all-time high, largely due to the high cost of housing
• Unsheltered residents face significant health risks, including hypothermia, respiratory issues, and death

Special Thanks to Local Partners:

Cunningham Township extends its gratitude to local organizations and individuals for their support of the PWES, including Prometheus Partners LLC, CU Public Health, City of Champaign Township, Champaign Fire Department, and others.

For more information, to make a donation, or to get involved, visit www.ctso.org or contact Danielle Chynoweth at danielle@ctso.org.