Immanuel Shelter Launches “Beat the Heat” Campaign
Immanuel Shelter has launched its Beat the Heat campaign, providing vital sun and heat protection provisions to eastern Sussex County locals lacking access to housing or other means to escape the harsh summer elements.
Immanuel’s summer care packages, free for the taking, are now available near the top of Rehoboth Avenue. They are easy to spot thanks to a brightly colored banner created by “Beat the Heat” sponsor Signarama of Rehoboth Beach displayed on the YMCA chain link fence on the south side of the street. Each care package contains bottled water donated by sponsor Dos Locos Restaurant, as well as contributions from the Unitarian Universalist Church and other members of the community including a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, a pair of sunglasses, insect repellant, and a hat or visor.
“It’s our goal to provide free sun protection care packages to those in need throughout the summer,” says Immanuel Shelter Board chair, Janet Idema. “We are asking for sun protection product donations from local businesses and residents throughout the next three months in support of our Beat the Heat campaign.”
Residents and businesses are encouraged to drop off donations at Signarama (37169 Rehoboth Avenue Extension, Unit #9, Rehoboth Beach) during normal business hours.
Immanuel Shelter was established in 2010, providing eastern Sussex County homeless men and women with basic needs for surviving dangerously frigid winter nights, primarily from November through March each year. The shelter offers those experiencing homelessness a clean bed for the night, access to shower facilities, a hot meal when community donations permit, and the comfort of caring, supervisory Immanuel volunteers.
Immanuel Shelter is a Rehoboth Beach-based Delaware corporation in the process of attaining federal 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. The volunteer organization is wholly dependent on donations to sustain its community services. As the need for year-round shelter services has grown, Immanuel has launched a capital fundraising campaign to establish its own local facility that is accessible to members of our community experiencing homelessness.
“We are grateful for the generosity of our community,” says Janet Idema. “We would not be here without the help, support and commitment of many local and nationally based businesses, committed individuals, local religious organizations, civic groups, and law enforcement,” she adds. “We look forward to meeting the growing, year round needs for serving those experiencing homelessness in the Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Dewey areas.”
To learn how you or your business can contribute to Immanuel Shelter, email or call Janet Idema at 302-703-6424. The organization is seeking qualified Board members, volunteers, restaurant participation in regular meal donations, seasonal clothing, and financial donations.