Milford No-Freeze Shelter Sees 'Surge In Demand'

MILFORD, CT — Milford’s no-freeze overflow shelter program has experienced a more than 25 percent increase in demand this winter, with organizers calling for more volunteers as cold weather continues, according to a statement.

The program, which runs through March 31, has already served more than 250 people — surpassing the 206 residents who used the shelters during the entire 2024-25 season. On average, 43 people per night have sought refuge, compared to 31 per night last year.

Organizers say a historically frigid winter, combined with economic pressures, has left more people living in tents, cars and other makeshift shelters vulnerable during severe cold snaps.

“Our overflow shelters are literally lifesaving, and we couldn’t provide this service without our amazing volunteers,” said Jenn Paradis, executive director of the Beth-El Center.

A volunteer training session is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 19, at 5:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church. Virtual options will also be available.

Kaylyn Crawford, who coordinates volunteers, said 55 people used the shelters in a single night this week, straining the largely volunteer-run effort.

The program is supported by the Beth-El Center, Trinity Lutheran Church, and Mary Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church.

Connecticut recently experienced its longest stretch of consecutive days under the Severe Cold Weather Protocol in more than a decade, according to Gov. Ned Lamont's office.