faqs
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness and needs assistance, click here.
Due to the nature of our organization, there are a variety of individuals that visit our site. For the convenience of all who may view this page, we have addressed the following FAQs in four (4) sections. Click a link to jump to a section.
GENERAL INFO & DEFINITIONS:
Where is COFM located?
We serve the Greater Williamsburg community. Our shelter operates by housing guests in a local church each night for one week over the course of approximately 18 weeks. Mail can be sent year-round to:
Community of Faith Mission P.O. Box 6357, Williamsburg, VA 23188
What is COFM’s status?
Community of Faith Mission is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law.
What is a Guest?
This is the term we use to refer to the individuals experiencing homelessness who come to the shelter.
What is a Community Agency?
This is the term we use to refer to government organizations, non-profits, and other agencies that assist us in serving our Guests. Local police, medical centers, and housing assistance programs are a few examples.
What is a Gold Benefactor?
This is the term we use to thank individuals and corporations that donate over $1,000 to our cause over the course of one fiscal year.
FOR INDIVIDIALS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS:
Where can I go?
What services does COFM provide?
Each night we offer a safe and sanitary place to sleep. Guests are provided with dinner and breakfast in a community setting and a bagged lunch you can take with you every day. Each week, a personal toiletry kit is given to each guest. Hot showers are available at least twice a week. When we can, we bring in outside services and connect guests with medical and mental health professionals, employment and housing assistance, and any other resources we can to encourage the health and well-being of our guests.
Are there barriers to entry?
For adult individuals willing to follow the reasonable rules and procedures of the shelter, there are very few barriers to entry. Guests are asked to refrain from being intoxicated when entering the shelter.
How can I get in touch with COFM for assistance?
FOR INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED:
What are volunteers required to do?
Volunteers sign up for specific roles within the shelter during the season or outside the shelter during the off-season. These roles vary in levels of complexity and involvement. Volunteers help set up the shelter for the week, assist the shelter manager with check-in and check-out, cook and serve meals, and provide conversation and compassion to the guests.
What are the different ways to support COFM’s mission?
You can support our mission to provide emergency shelter to those experiencing homelessness during the coldest months of the year by volunteering, donating, and spreading the word.
FOR HOST SITES & PARTNERS:
What are the requirements to become a Host Site or Partner?
If you have a congregation and are interested in joining COFM, click here to contact us for more information.
What do I need to know before serving at the shelter?
If you want more information but have not yet joined our program:
What are volunteers required to do?
Volunteers sign up for specific roles within the shelter during the season or outside the shelter during the off-season. These roles vary in levels of complexity and involvement. Volunteers help set up the shelter for the week, assist the shelter manager with check-in and check-out, cook and serve meals, and provide conversation and compassion to the guests.
“For I was hungry,
and you fed me.
I was thirsty,
and
you gave me drink.
I was a stranger
and
you invited me in."
- Matthew 25:35
Personal or Business Donations
are greatly appreciated.
COFM offers a unique opportunity to invest locally and see the tangible results firsthand. By choosing us, you support a trustworthy organization that ensures your charity money directly benefits the Greater Williamsburg Area, creating a resilient community we can all be proud of.