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
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.