What to Bring to Emergency Shelter

What to Bring

When coming to the shelter, citizens should bring the following with them:

  • Baby food and formula
  • Beach chair or camp chair
  • Car keys
  • Credit cards and cash
  • Diapers and wipes
  • Extra clothing pillows, blankets and sleeping bags
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Food (canned or packaged) and water for your family (at least enough for 3 to 5 days)
  • Hygiene supplies 
    • Dentures
    • Deodorant
    • Glasses/contacts
    • Hearing aids
    • Soap
    • Toiletries
    • Toothbrush
    • Toothpaste
    • Wash cloth
  • Identification
  • Insurance papers
  • Medical equipment such as a wheelchair/walker, oxygen, etc.
  • Prescription medication and emergency first aid kit
  • Quiet games, toys, books, cards
  • Other comfort items

Prohibited Items at the Shelter

  • Alcohol, drugs, other illegal substances
  • Loud radios or televisions
  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Smoking, matches, lighters
  • Weapons of any kind 
    • Chains
    • Guns
    • Knives
    • Etc.

Additional Tips & Rules for Time in Shelter

  • Mathews Department of Social Services shelter staff are not able to provide child care or medical care to any individual in the shelter. 
  • Parents are responsible for their child(ren) at all times. 
  • Be sure you contact family outside the area to let them know you are going to the shelter. 
  • Keep important phone numbers written down in case your cell phone battery dies. 
  • Please keep in mind you may not have access to a refrigerator or electricity in the shelter. 
  • There are a limited number of cots and bedding available. 
  • When you leave the shelter you will need to sign out with shelter staff.