According to the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, veterans make up nearly 11 percent of the homeless adult population in Pennsylvania. Some of these homeless veterans live here in Lycoming County.

In a bid to help these former warriors stay warm against the cold this winter. A warming center has been set up at First Church on Market Street. A fundraiser to benefit this program will be taking place this weekend.

The theme of the fundraiser is “Keep Them Warm, Keep Them Safe”.

For the second year in a row, the Veterans at Veteran’s Grove, under the volunteer direction of John Livermore, Bob Minier, and Dave Mecum, will sponsor a fundraiser to benefit the Code Blue Overnight Homeless Shelter at First Church, Williamsport.

The dates for this fundraiser are Thursday, October 16th, Friday, October 17th, Saturday, October 18th, and Sunday, October 19th.

It will consist, in part, of the sale of hot dogs and “fixins” all day. Donations will be accepted.

On Sunday, October 19, beginning at noon, roast beef sandwiches will be available, and donations will be accepted.

The location of the fundraiser is Veterans’ Grove, at the intersection of Lycoming Creek Road and West Cottage Avenue in Old Lycoming Township.

The Code Blue Overnight Shelter at First Church, located at 504 Market Street, Williamsport, will be open from Monday, January 5, through Friday, March 27, 2026.

Everyone needing a warm, safe place to sleep is welcome.