The Mission of Winter Relief
For our Guests: To keep those experiencing homelessness in the Baltimore/Annapolis corridor from freezing to death during the Winter months and to show them the Divine’s love in simple practical ways during our time together.
For our Volunteers: To share with them the blessing of a broader, deeper faith through serving society’s least, last, and lost.
Who We Serve
We serve up to 100 homeless adult (18 years of age or older) men and women, depending on church size and limitations, throughout Anne Arundel County. All Program Participants must comply with all program policies, procedures, guidelines, and a daily breathalyzer test.
1992-1993 and 2022-2023 Sheltering Seasons
| Of the 12 churches that began sheltering the homeless in 1992-1993 5 are sheltering in the 2022-2023 |
| Harundale Presbyterian Linthicum Heights United Methodist Pasadena United Methodist Saint Bernadette Catholic Saint Christopher Episcopal |
Contacting/Registering for Winter Relief
Winter Relief Emergency Shelter Coordinated Entry Procedure2022-2023 Sheltering Season
The procedure for entry into Winter Relief has changed this season. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are unable to provide shelter through our churches and synagogues. We are operating an “Alternate Emergency Shelter” at a local hotel.
Individuals seeking shelter must be screened through the Anne Arundel County Coordinated Entry screening process by calling 410-417-7260 and leaving your name and contact information for a return call.
All individuals entering the Winter Relief shelter must continue to meet minimal standards including:
- Not on the sex offender registry
- No open warrants
- Not a known terrorist or associated with a group that at any time made any attempt to overthrow the government
- May not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Executive Director: Mario Berninzoni
Winter Relief: The Story of a Season
Through an all volunteer effort, Winter Relief has operated as a seasonal Emergency Temporary Shelter since 1992. Hosted at different Anne Arundel County religious facilities each week from late October through April, the shelter is a safe and comfortable refuge for those experiencing homelessness throughout the coldest months of the year. Each facility provides services, meals, and spiritual guidance to the guests during their designated week. It is a unique opportunity for people in the community to reach out and share their blessings with those less fortunate.