Common Questions Regarding Hypothermia Prevention
What is the goal of the North County Hypothermia Prevention program (NCHP)? NCHP, operated by Cornerstones, is one of four hypothermia prevention sites in Fairfax County that prevents weather-induced illness and loss of life among unsheltered homeless adult men and women in our community. Unsheltered homeless people are those who, whether by choice or by lack of shelter space, live outdoors, in cars, or in other places unsuitable for human habitation. Every season, NCHP serves between 200 and 250 guests.
How do NCHP and the Embry Rucker Shelter differ? While NCHP serves adult guests during the coldest months of the year, the Embry Rucker Shelter, also operated by Cornerstones, serves adult men and women as well as families year round. In addition to shelter and meals, shelter residents participate in case management, life skills classes, educational and recreational programs. They benefit from referrals for substance abuse and mental health treatment, and Cornerstones programs such as developmental childcare and transitional housing. These comprehensive services address the root causes of homelessness and allow residents to plan for the future.
Where is NCHP? NCHP is located in the North County Human Services Building, 1850 Cameron Glen Drive in Reston, just ¼ mile from the Embry Rucker Shelter.
When does NCHP begin and end? Each year, NCHP begins on December 1 and ends on March 31. The program operates every night during this timeframe, regardless of inclement weather and on all holidays.
Who can participate on-site? In order to protect volunteers’ safety, all NCHP volunteers who participate on-site should be at least 18 years old. Maximum group sizes are recommended due to limited space and to ensure that volunteers have an enjoyable experience.
Since my child/teen/youth group cannot participate on-site, how can they help? There are a variety of ways for youth to make a difference throughout Cornerstones programs. They can lead a wish list donation collection or bagged meal preparation for NCHP guests from home, school, or another off-site location. Or they can visit our volunteer opportunities page to view available options.
Why should I deliver bagged meals and wish list donations to the Embry Rucker Shelter? NCHP only operates during the evening and early morning hours and has very limited storage facilities. As a result, we ask you to deliver bagged meals and wish list items to the Embry Rucker Shelter, which is always open and where we can most effectively store your donation for immediate distribution.
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