Audrain County winter shelter to open early

The only winter emergency shelter in Audrain County will now open earlier than expected, after a wave of community support closed a critical funding gap.

The Room at the Inn in Mexico, Missouri, will open its doors Wednesday, December 10, providing overnight shelter from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. through February for families, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness.

Executive director Ra’Vae Moore says donations, mean people who might otherwise be on the streets will have a warm, safe place to stay all winter.

The Audrain County Shelter Resource Coalition is hiring seasonal staff and seeking volunteers to help with check-ins, meals, hospitality, and cleanup.