Welcoming Hope: Our 2025–26 Emergency Shelter Season
There are moments when a community comes together and says: “We’ve got this. We’ll be here for one another.” At ECHOS, that’s precisely what the upcoming season of our Emergency Shelter represents.
Opening Doors on December 8
Starting Monday, December 8, 2025, our shelter will open its doors once again serving as a place of safety, warmth, and support for our neighbors in need. This season will run through Friday, April 10, 2026.
Between December 1 and December 5, we’ll begin our pre-intake period: individuals can schedule an Emergency Shetler Intake Appointment by using our scheduling tool below or by calling 717-361-0740. This step helps us prepare for the season ahead and ensures we can meet people right where they are.
Schedule your Emergency Shetler Intake Appointment Today
Why This Matters
In Lancaster County, too many neighbors face the cold and uncertainty of housing instability. When the temperature drops and options feel limited, the shelter becomes a tangible expression of our community’s care. It’s not just a bed or a roof—it’s a start toward hope, a place to catch a breath, and a bridge to the next step.
At the heart of what we do is the belief that everyone deserves to chart their own course with the support of their neighbors behind them.
What’s New This Season
We’re committed to making our shelter experience even better this year, with a few important changes to improve flow, dignity, and comfort:
Intake will be daytime only, helping our team provide a smoother, more welcoming check-in, and giving guests more support right from the start.
Our operations, volunteer roles, and environment are refined thanks to feedback from past seasons.
How You Can Be Part of This Story
The shelter does not run on walls and beds alone; it runs on the kindness of neighbors stepping up. Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Volunteer
From morning routines to dinner service, guest support to cleaning & organizing—volunteers play a vital role. Our volunteer site outlines roles such as Meal Service Volunteer, Cleaning & Organization Volunteer, Guest Support Volunteer and more. If you’re ready to help build community and dignity, join us.
ECHOS Lancaster Volunteer Page
2. Support via Meals, Wish Lists & Sponsorships
Wish Lists: Donate items that bring comfort and dignity to our guests.
Hot Meals: Host, cook or serve a meal—there’s no better way to build connection than over shared food.
3. Spread the Word
You have networks, voices, and influence—use them. Share our story, invite someone to volunteer with you, or connect us with a group or organization that might want to sponsor or support.
Together, We Make a Difference
When a community rallies, possibilities expand. When we say “yes” to our neighbors, we open space for hope to grow. So we invite you: make a plan to stop by, walk through what we do, bring someone with you, volunteer for a shift, donate a meal, carry this message into your gatherings.
We’re not just opening doors this December, we’re opening possibilities. And thanks to you, the next step is within reach for people who need it most.