Rotational Shelter Creates Connections
Relationships Lead to Results
The Rotational Shelter Program has concluded its 40th season. As the wrap-up on the season is underway, survey feedback and volunteer stories are rolling in.
In the North County Branch, a shelter guest responded to the question, "Do you have any suggestions that could help improve the program?" by writing, "It was already more than I could ask for but hopefully they have help like this in every city where it's needed."
A defining characteristic of the Rotational Shelter Program is the relationship component. Often, shelter guests will share with shelter volunteers. The volunteers hosting the program get to know the families that are staying in their facilities. These relationships can lead to fresh perspectives and heart-warming connections.
In the San Diego Inland Branch, Scott and Sam, volunteers from College Avenue Church (pictured above) shared the following story highlighting the kinds of connections that are made. Notes: the names have been changed to preserve anonymity.
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During the two weeks that College Ave supported the [Rotational Shelter Program (RSP)] in January, we had Carl and his 12-year-old daughter, Veronica, stay with us. Veronica was able to attend our Middle School ministry on Wednesday nights and felt very welcomed there. This led Carl to request if there was a way Veronica could continue to attend our Middle School Ministry even when they moved on from our church. Luckily, the next church they stayed at was very close to my house, and so we were able to give her a ride on Wednesday nights when I brought my kids to Youth Ministries. We were able to give Carl and Veronica a ride to our church on a Sunday as well. During this time, our Youth Ministries had a winter camp on our campus, and we were able to get Veronica a scholarship to attend. The other churches involved with RSP were very accommodating in supporting her desire to attend our Middle School Ministry, and we really appreciated that. Carl and Veronica were able to find housing through RSP and moved to a different part of the city. However, it was great to be able to support Veronica while she was involved with the Rotational Shelter Program.
