“I’m grateful for a warm place when it’s freezing outside.”

When winter temperatures plummet in King County, it can be life-threatening for women experiencing homelessness. During severe cold snaps, The Sophia Way increases its shelter capacity – extending Day Center hours and adding extra beds – so that women seeking warmth have a safe place to be.

To meet the increased need, our staff works tirelessly to create a warm, welcoming space for those with nowhere else to go. The Day Center, which typically operates from 8 am to 3 pm, remains open until 7 pm, and 10 additional beds are made available to help women shelter inside from the bitter cold outside. Extra food is stocked to accommodate the increased number of women, while blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing are distributed generously. If a woman needs medical assistance, staff ensure she receives the care she needs. “We provide everything they need and create a safe space for them to sleep and stay warm,” shares Katie Glore, Programs Manager II at The Sophia Way.

The freezing temperatures drive more women to seek shelter. “Usually, we see about five women needing a bed, but this week, it was up to 15,” says Katie. With only 10 extra beds, she immediately started calling the list of shelters provided by King County. “We were able to find space for four women and even arranged Ubers to get them there.”

Winter is not just physically harsh – it takes an emotional toll as well. “The cold adds stress to everyone involved,” explains Naoual El Imani, Programs Manager I at The Sophia Way. “For some women unaccustomed to shelter life, stepping into one can feel overwhelming. For those already staying at Sophia’s Place, the sudden increase in people disrupts their sense of routine and stability.”

Our staff understands these challenges and works to create a calm, supportive space. Using a trauma-informed approach, they prioritize safety, dignity, and respect. “We ensure that women feel safe, treating them with kindness and understanding,” says Naoual.

The warmth women receive at The Sophia Way is more than physical; it is the warmth of compassion, stability, and dignity. “I didn’t know where to go tonight. I was worried I had to sleep outside again. I don’t know if I would’ve made it,” shares one woman. Another expresses relief: “I came to Sophia’s Place last week. Staff was so kind to me and made me feel safe.” These expressions of gratitude remind us how critical it is to have a place of safety and warmth during the harshest days of winter.

As we prepare for more cold weather through the La Nina cycle, we are deeply grateful to the community for making it possible to welcome more women during these critical times – providing nourishing meals, warm winter clothing, and the compassionate care of our dedicated staff. It is this collective kindness that makes The Sophia Way a place of hope and healing, especially when it is needed most.