HIGH POINT, N.C. —As freezing temperatures grip the Triad, West End Ministries in High Point has activated its Women's White Flag Shelter, an emergency overnight program ensuring no woman is left outside in dangerously cold weather. The shelter, operating from Nov. 30 through March 31, welcomes any woman in need, regardless of bed availability. "It gets down to twenty-something degrees sometimes or even lower, and that can be really dangerous," said Lakisha Medley, West End Ministries Shelter Manager.
The shelter has seen a significant increase in women seeking emergency shelter following the pandemic and recent government shutdown. Medley noted that more than two-thirds of the women at the Winter Shelter this year are first-time users. "These are people who, about two-thirds or maybe a little more of our residents who came to our winter shelter, have never been in a shelter before," Medley said.
To accommodate the growing need, the ministry ensures no one is turned away on cold nights, even if it means finding space on couches or in hallways. "During White Flag, we're not going to turn anybody away," Medley emphasized.
The Winter White Flag Shelter works alongside Leslie's House, West End Ministries' year-round shelter for women, which offers 20 beds, therapy, case management, life skills classes, and housing assistance. Together, they provide a continuum of care, supporting women experiencing homelessness during winter and aiding their transition toward stability year-round.
West End Ministries staff, many with personal experiences of homelessness or hardship, focus on holistic support. Their motto, "We help you rebuild yourself," underscores their commitment to helping women regain stability and independence.
This year, the organization has served 13,952 people through its food pantry, with 192 women staying in one of the shelters. Requests for rental and utility assistance have surged, with more than two-thirds of winter shelter guests being first-time users.
In addition to its shelters, West End Ministries operates thrift stores, senior and children's programs, utility and rental assistance, a weekly food pantry, and a hot meal service every Thursday at 5 p.m.
With winter underway and demand rising, the ministry seeks community support. High-priority donation items include cleaning supplies, personal care items, winter clothing, and volunteers for meal service and shelter support. Financial donations can be designated for meals or shelter needs, and community members can sign up to provide meals through the ministry's website.
For women arriving at West End Ministries, especially those experiencing homelessness for the first time, the White Flag Shelter offers more than warmth, it provides safety, community, and a first step toward rebuilding their lives. As temperatures drop, shelter staff rely on volunteers and donations to meet demand and ensure no one is left to freeze outside.
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