Wichita Homeless Advocates Seek Donations as Winter Shelter Closes

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As a winter shelter in Wichita prepares to close for the season, local advocates are working to secure more donations to help the city's unhoused residents. Patrick Ramsey, who recently escaped homelessness himself, has started the Wichita Area Homeless Coalition to try and assist people still fighting for safe, permanent housing.

Why it matters

The closure of the Second Light emergency winter shelter highlights the ongoing need for support and resources for Wichita's homeless population, especially as the weather remains cold and inhospitable. Ramsey's new coalition aims to fill some of those gaps by collecting and distributing essential items to those in need.

The details

Ramsey says the homeless still require extra help even with the winter shelter closing on Monday. He notes that Sunday's cold temperatures and high winds demonstrate why those living on the streets still need access to shelter. To ease the burden on other organizations serving the homeless, Ramsey's coalition is seeking donations of clothes, hygiene items, socks, water, and other necessities. Ramsey works with Wichita Pay It Forward to distribute the donated items downtown every Saturday, hoping to provide some relief and encouragement.

• The Second Light emergency winter shelter in Wichita is set to close for the season on Monday, March 16, 2026.
• Ramsey only escaped homelessness three months ago, in December 2025.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Ramsey's coalition will continue collecting and distributing essential items to Wichita's homeless population every Saturday through Wichita Pay It Forward.