Regional Task Force Announces Warming Station Opening, Plans Public Forum on Critical Challenges

ELKINS, W.Va. — January 27, 2026 — The Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health held its first meeting of the year on January 22, 2026. It highlighted urgent winter shelter operations, upcoming community events, and new initiatives aimed at helping residents achieve their long-term recovery.

A central focus was the activation of the Randolph County Warming Station at the Refinery Church in the Seneca Mall and facing Third Street. The warming station opened on the Friday evening, January 23, with plans to operate throughout the following week due to extremely cold winter temperatures. Organizers are actively seeking volunteers to staff three-hour shifts. The Task Force also noted the continued operation of a warming station in Montrose, located in a community building by the local park.

New Grants, Programs, and Training Opportunities

Multiple agencies reported launching or planning new programs to support the community:

• Research Grant: A new five-year research grant through WVU aims to implement the Icelandic Model—a community-based approach to youth substance use prevention—statewide.
• Workforce Training: The Housing Authority announced a Medical Assistance program starting in March and a Wood Tech Course beginning in April. West Virginia Sober Living Solutions is accepting applications for Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) classes starting in April and planning a “Life Skills” training for next month, including a February class on how individuals can prepare their own income taxes.
• Upcoming Classes: Appalachian Community Health will soon launch open enrollment for a class focused on DUI-related challenges. The DHHR confirmed the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) begins on February 2.
• Crisis Intervention: A Critical Incident Training (CIT) class is scheduled for February 24th. Organizers are seeking two speakers: one who works closely with the homeless community and one who has experienced homelessness.

Community Outreach and Support Events

 The Task Force received updates on several successful and upcoming outreach efforts:

• Jobs & Hope’s “Day of Hope” on January 20 was reported as an immense success. A follow-up event is planned for January 29 at Mountain Cap from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; the organization will give away free materials to people experiencing homelessness.
• The Randolph County Family Resource Network (FRN) announced a Baby Pantry event on February 13, where community agencies can set up resource tables, and a Community Baby Shower on March 21.
• April Activities: Child Abuse Prevention Month in April will feature trainings every Tuesday. The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) continues its Body Safety training in schools. The Centers Against Violence (CAV) is partnering with the Art Center for an art gallery event in April for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and is seeking submissions from survivors.

Ongoing Challenges and Needs

Various reports also highlighted persistent regional challenges and gaps in service:

• Housing & Funding: The local Housing Authority’s Section 8 list remains frozen, a key transitional housing operation is paused and needs relocation, and mental health resources for clients are urgently needed. Catholic Charities reported that Dollar Energy Funds are low while food pantry use is up.
• Shelter & Staffing: CAV reported its shelter is at full capacity and the organization is actively hiring for multiple positions.
• Infrastructure: Code Enforcement indicated that more dangerous houses are scheduled for demolition.

Announcements and Next Steps

The Task Force announced two important upcoming meetings:

1. A Public Forum will be held on February 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Phil Gainer Community Center.
2. The next monthly Task Force meeting is scheduled for February 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., also at the Phil Gainer Community Center.

About the Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health:

Established in May 2021, this task force brings together local officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health needs. It meets monthly in Elkins, WV, usually the fourth Thursday of every month. The Task Force strives to identify gaps in services, coordinate resources, and implement sustainable solutions to these challenges in North Central West Virginia, including identifying peer recovery support specialists (PRSS), safe sober-living spaces, and expanded recovery facilities.

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