Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be homeless in Frederick during the winter months? Where do people go when the temperature drops? How do they stay warm? And what can those of us who sleep safely in heated homes do to help?
At the Mission, we walk alongside many of Frederick’s unhoused neighbors, and we hear their stories firsthand—especially during the harsh winter season. Your generosity protects lives, restores dignity, and shares hope when it’s needed most.
Why are people homeless?
Homelessness looks different for every individual. Some struggle with addiction. Others live with mental illness or disabilities that make it difficult to navigate our society’s systems. Winter can intensify feelings of isolation and depression.
Many people experiencing homelessness live alone, while others have partners, children, or even pets. For those who are ready and able to live under a roof again, the Mission does everything possible to help them transition into housing. For others who are not yet able—or willing—to take on the responsibilities of managing a home, we remain committed to helping them survive safely and with dignity.
Where do homeless Fredericktonians sleep in winter?
Beyond Shelter is Frederick’s only emergency shelter, serving up to 80 people across two locations—one for individuals and one for families. These beds fill quickly. On especially cold “Code Blue” nights, the Mission serves as an overflow location.
Still, the need far exceeds the available shelter space. Some people sleep in their cars. Others take refuge in makeshift camps hidden in wooded areas. These camps are located on private property, and recently, two were cleared to make way for warehouse construction. As a result, approximately 25 people were suddenly displaced, forced once again to search for a safe place to sleep.
How do people stay warm?
If you were to walk through a homeless camp on a cold winter night, you would see the ingenuity—and vulnerability—of those living there. People fashion shelters from tarps and salvaged materials. They sleep on wooden pallets wrapped in blankets or sleeping bags, doing their best to stay off the frozen ground.
Thanks to compassionate supporters like you, the Mission provides new or gently used coats, winter clothing, hand warmers, blankets, sleeping bags, and tarps—simple items that can make the difference between safety and danger in freezing temperatures.
How can you help?
You can make a direct impact by donating supplies or financial gifts to the Mission, allowing us to respond quickly to urgent needs. If you or someone you know would like to donate, clothes or bedding may be dropped in our blue bins at any time; our front office will accept other items during business hours. Whether you donate money or supplies, your generosity helps us extend warmth, care, and hope to our homeless neighbors this winter. Thank you for being part of the Mission.
