Shelter Information

Safe Space Winter Shelter provides emergency shelter overnight beds at rotating facilities during the coldest months in Chico. We are a first-come, first-serve shelter but we prioritize those with extreme vulnerability, putting them at too great a risk outside.

• All genders are welcome (and respected!)

• Couples stay together whenever possible

• A limited number of pets are allowed

• Sobriety is not required

• No ID is required for entry

To reserve a shelter bed, please come to intake at 5:30PM to sign up. Be prepared to store all personal belongings overnight except for necessities (phone, medication, book, etc) that can fit into a gallon size clear plastic bag. We are currently unable to accommodate bikes, bike trailers or carts at the shelter locations. Please find other arrangements for these items.

We operate on a code of conduct:

Guests agree to arrive at intake between 5:30-6:30 each night they want a shelter bed. We almost always have a wait list, arriving late can result in loss of bed to make room for someone else in need.

Guests agree to use Safe Space provided transportation to and from shelter, every time. SSWS provides evening bus service from the intake center to the shelter and morning bus service from the shelter to downtown Chico.

Guests agree to respect themselves, others, volunteers, and church property. We do our best to create an environment that promotes safety, dignity and belonging. As a guest please contribute positively to those around you and treat the host church property with respect.

Safe Space Winter Shelter is a ZERO-TOLERANCE zone for violence. This includes verbal and physical violence, and harassment based on age, race, ethnic background, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.

Safe Space Winter Shelter is a ZERO-TOLERANCE zone for alcohol, drugs and weapons. Any of these items must be placed in ‘belongings bags’ at intake and not taken into the shelter. Guests will receive these items back in the morning.