Winter Relief Emergency Shelter

The Mission of Winter Relief

For our Guests: To keep those experiencing homelessness in the Baltimore/Annapolis corridor from freezing to death during the Winter months and to show them the Divine’s love in simple practical ways during our time together.

For our Volunteers: To share with them the blessing of a broader, deeper faith through serving society’s least, last, and lost.

Who We Serve

We serve up to 100 homeless adult (18 years of age or older) men and women, depending on church size and limitations, throughout Anne Arundel County. All Program Participants must comply with all program policies, procedures, guidelines, and a daily breathalyzer test.



1992-1993 and 2022-2023 Sheltering Seasons

Of the 12 churches that began sheltering the homeless in 1992-1993
5 are sheltering in the 2022-2023
Harundale Presbyterian
Linthicum Heights United Methodist
Pasadena United Methodist
Saint Bernadette Catholic
Saint Christopher Episcopal


Contacting/Registering for Winter Relief


Winter Relief Emergency Shelter Coordinated Entry Procedure2022-2023 Sheltering Season

The procedure for entry into Winter Relief has changed this season. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are unable to provide shelter through our churches and synagogues. We are operating an “Alternate Emergency Shelter” at a local hotel.

Individuals seeking shelter must be screened through the Anne Arundel County Coordinated Entry screening process by calling 410-417-7260 and leaving your name and contact information for a return call.

All individuals entering the Winter Relief shelter must continue to meet minimal standards including:

  • Not on the sex offender registry
  • No open warrants
  • Not a known terrorist or associated with a group that at any time made any attempt to overthrow the government
  • May not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Executive Director: Mario Berninzoni

Winter Relief: The Story of a Season

Through an all volunteer effort, Winter Relief has operated as a seasonal Emergency Temporary Shelter since 1992. Hosted at different Anne Arundel County religious facilities each week from late October through April, the shelter is a safe and comfortable refuge for those experiencing homelessness throughout the coldest months of the year. Each facility provides services, meals, and spiritual guidance to the guests during their designated week. It is a unique opportunity for people in the community to reach out and share their blessings with those less fortunate.

Seasonal Reports

2018 – 2019 2017 – 2018 2016 – 2017 2015 – 2016 2014 – 2015    
2013 – 2014 2012 – 2013 2011 – 2012 2010 – 2011 2009 – 2010 2008 – 2009
2007 – 2008 2006 – 2007 2005 – 2006 2004 – 2005 2003 – 2004 2002 – 2003