Homeless shelter scrambles to pay repair bill

When the boiler breaks down in this kind of weather, you fix it. Then you figure out how to pay for it.

That’s what Samaritan House is doing. 

The Kalispell homeless shelter on Ninth Avenue West had to have emergency repairs done on its boiler heating system two weeks ago and now faces a $4,100 bill.

It’s a major unexpected expense during a crucial time of year, Samaritan House Director Chris Krager said.

A fundraiser jam featuring nearly 50 local musicians was held Thursday night at Scotty’s and raised $600. Since then an anonymous donor has issued a fundraising challenge and will match dollar for dollar all money raised through noon on Monday, Dec. 9.

Caring for the Flathead Valley’s homeless population is especially critical during the current frigid weather, Krager said.

“Our cold weather contingency plan is in full effect,” he said. “Our occupancy is at 100 percent; we’re full and overflowing.”

The shelter won’t turn anyone away when the weather is this cold, but sleeping arrangements can get crowded as every spare rollaway bed is used.

“We shift and adjust as needed,” he said. “The nature of homelessness in Montana is that it can be fatal. We encourage people to look out for one another.”

Krager said the shelter makes arrangements for outreach as it receives reports of local residents without shelter. Samaritan House also has a good supply of warm coats available to those who need them.

Donations to the boiler fund can be dropped off at the shelter, 124 Ninth Ave. W., or can be made online at www.homelessintheflathead.com.

For more information about Samaritan House’s needs, call 257-5801.