Winter changes everything on the street. A wet pair of socks becomes a health risk. A warm drink becomes a reason to stop and talk. Long nights mean more hours to get through. And for volunteers, it becomes a lot easier to stay home.
Jesus did not leave room for seasonal love:
"For I was hungry, and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me drink. I was a stranger, and you took me in. I was naked, and you clothed me." — Matthew 25:35–36 (WEB)
Love on Hamilton goes out every Tuesday through the winter — in the cold, in the rain, every week. Here is what we have learned about serving well when it is cold.
Dress like you are staying out
You cannot love people well if you are miserable and counting the minutes. Layer up: a warm base layer, a wind- and water-resistant outer layer, a hat, gloves you can still use your phone in, and warm socks with waterproof boots. Bring a thermos. If you are cold, you will rush; if you are warm, you will linger — and lingering is where conversations happen.
What actually helps in the cold
- Dry socks. One of the most commonly requested items in winter outreach. Wet feet in the cold cause real harm.
- Gloves, hats, and scarves. Simple, dark, durable ones are best.
- Hand and foot warmers. Cheap, light, and genuinely welcome.
- Warm drinks and food. Something hot opens more conversations than any opening line.
- Information. Knowing where to send someone for shelter, a meal, or a warm space tonight matters as much as anything in your bag. Our Get Help page lists verified Hamilton services.
Give wisely, not just generously
James asks what good it is to tell someone "be warmed and filled" without giving "the things the body needs" (James 2:15–16, WEB). Practical love matters. But generosity goes further with a little wisdom:
- Ask before you collect. Ministries and shelters often have specific needs and limited storage. A quick message saves a trunk full of the wrong things.
- New is better for some items. Socks, underwear, and toiletries should be new.
- Think about storage and transport. Supplies have to live somewhere between outreaches. Our trailer is full, which is why we are raising funds for an outreach van — protected storage and the ability to serve more nights than Tuesday.
Know the signs of danger
Extreme cold can be life-threatening. If someone is confused, very drowsy, shivering uncontrollably, slurring their words, or unresponsive, call 911 — these can be signs of hypothermia. Stay with them if it is safe and help them get somewhere warm. Check the forecast and any extreme cold warnings before you head out, and keep an eye on your own team too.
Warmth is more than a coat
The coldest part of a winter night for many people is not the temperature. It is being invisible. Learn names. Remember what someone told you last week. Ask if you can pray. A hat keeps someone warm for a season; being known and loved — and hearing that God knows them by name — can change a life.
Read more about loving people experiencing homelessness well, and the practical safety guide for outreach teams.
Three ways to help this winter
- Come out with us. Every Tuesday at 7:00 PM, 75 John Street North. Plan your first Tuesday — no experience needed.
- Give. Gifts fund food, warm supplies, and Gospel outreach every week. Support the ministry.
- Pray. For the people of downtown Hamilton, for warmth and shelter, and for hearts open to Jesus. Send a prayer request or pray with us.
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