A frigid winter combined with increased economic pressures has left hundreds of people seeking temporary refuge in Milford’s overnight no-freeze shelters, already outstripping the total number who used the facilities last year and prompting a call for additional volunteer assistance.
Milford’s no-freeze overflow program has served well over 250 people, already surpassing the 206 residents who sought shelter in 2024-2025. The program has averaged 43 people per night, compared with 31 last year. The program runs through March 31.
People living in tents, cars or other makeshift shelters face immediate danger when storms roll in and temperatures drop, with the need only increasing as the winter drags on.
“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 in Milford. “This winter has proved an incredible challenge, with so many people struggling just to find a safe place to spend the night, and based on the increased need, we have so much more work to do as a community.”
A training for those interested in volunteering and helping provide a safe, welcoming environment for those using the shelter will take place at Trinity Lutheran Church on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 5:30 p.m. The church is located at 21 Robert Treat Pkwy. There will also be virtual options for those who cannot attend in person.
Kaylyn Crawford, who is coordinating volunteers for the overflow program, said that the Milford community response has been inspiring, but urgent need remains, with many more cold nights ahead this winter. Crawford said that 55 people used shelters in a single night this week, putting significant stress on the mostly volunteer-led program.
“We have a duty as a city and as a community to show up for our neighbors, and they need us now more than ever,” she said.
According to the office of Gov. Ned Lamont, this month saw longest stretch of consecutive days Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol was activated in over a decade, which initiates a system for state agencies to coordinate with cities and other organizations to help provide shelters.
Milford’s program is supported by the Beth-El Center, Trinity Lutheran Church and Mary Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church, now in its second year. It relies largely on volunteers who are tasked with welcoming guests, helping them settle in and monitoring the facility overnight.
“2025 was a transformational year,” Paradis said. “We know 2026 will demand more from all of us if we want to keep our neighbors safe during this crisis.”