Hypothermia Week 2025
As Christians, we've always believed in the power of community and the call to keep the less fortunate in our hearts. There's a unique warmth that fills the air when we come together to help those in need. Coming up on February 23, we'll do just that. St. Matthew's Weekday School is partnering with FACETS for the annual Hypothermia Week.
For the past 25 years, St. Matthew's has taken part in Fairfax County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program. This hearts-and-hands initiative ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstance, has a safe place where they can stay warm during the harsh winter months.
From February 23 to March 2, we're changing our Church and Social Hall into an overnight shelter. Our doors will welcome guests at 5:00 PM each evening. Serving more than just a warm place, we'll treat our guests to a hot dinner, a heartening breakfast, snacks, and even take-away lunch items to ensure their safety and wellbeing during the bitter winter days.
At St. Matthew's, we believe in a holistic approach to care. So, alongside our dedicated volunteers and the devoted staff from FACETS, we'll engage in meaningful conversations with our guests, providing a sense of connection and community to each person to step through our doors.
If you're wondering how you can participate in Hypothermia Week, there are many ways you can lend a helping hand. You can volunteer for a shift, confidentially donate perishable or non-perishable food items, or provide financial backing through online giving or via the Text-to-Give initiative.
Our goal is to offer not just a shelter but to provide our guests with a sense of dignity, care, and belonging. We're inspired by the words of Proverbs 31:20, "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy." And extend our hands we will – with a warm meal, a place to rest, and above all, a heartfelt smile and a listening ear.
Let's come together, Annandale! Every contribution, however small, adds up to a vast difference in someone else's life. You can make an important difference. Let's show our willingness to serve and emanate Christ's love through these acts of care and kindness.
Mark your calendar, February 23rd is just around the corner. St. Matthew's WDS and you, together, will bring the warmth of Christian care to those who need it most. Let's gather, serve, and make Hypothermia Week 2025 a success. See you there!
