Shelter from the cold

As we ring in the new year, I wanted to center myself on finding gratitude for the things in the world going in a positive direction. It only took three hours into 2026 when I encountered a group of young 20-somethings. The colder weather has triggered the Cold Night Shelter to open at our MLK Center. The group of volunteers that organizes the shelter works efficiently and can put together food and volunteers on a dime. They are an impressive group, mostly made up of retirees who work tirelessly to feed and shelter some of our most vulnerable people. I am forever grateful for the work they do. They are the same faces and hearts every single time. 

For my first time ever, I was able to cover the "insomniac" shift of 3 to 6 a.m. Imagine my surprise when I walked in five minutes before my shift to see three young adults in their early 20s who did the midnight to 3 a.m. shift! One of their friends, David, stayed with me to cover the next shift. Because the folks were sleeping, I didn't get their names or stories of how they came to volunteer, but it sat with me. The younger generation has empathy and heart. Their kindness matters, and it leaves me with such gratitude to know that when these retirees are no longer physically able to organize and provide staffing for the shelter, the next generation is coming into the fold to take the watch. Kindness matters.

The next time you hear colder or extreme weather is moving in, tune in to the city of Fernandina Beach website and social media outlets for information about the shelter. They need volunteers and supplies. I highly recommend the insomniac shift. The peaceful snores of our vulnerable citizens sleeping under a roof with warmth, food, and care are music to my ears.

Robin C. Lentz is the former mayor of Fernandina Beach and a Nassau County educator. She and her husband have resided in Fernandina for the last 23 years and have two children.

A note from the Homeless Coalition: The Cold Night Shelter will be open several consecutive days due to an extreme cold front in the area, and volunteers are needed. We especially need some of you night owls for those late-night shifts! Your generous hearts have donated plenty of food, clothing and blankets, for which we are thankful. All visitors are welcome during open times to stop by and chat and learn how you can help. Shelter nights are always a warm time of fellowship, and our volunteers will share their stories and hopefully you are able to sign up and join them. Many hands make a warm night! Thank you to the city of Fernandina Beach for the use of the space and all our volunteers who show up to help.

Cold Night Shelter: Open 6 p.m. - 9 a.m.

MLK Rec Center, 1200 Elm Street, Fernandina Beach 32034

SIGN UP: https://volunteersignup.org/WX3F8

EMAIL: ncewcinfo@gmail.com