The establishment of the new warming center in the heart of our community is a positive step forward in providing for the neediest among us, in and around Durango. I applaud La Plata County commissioners for their unanimous support of a funding request.

We as a culture have a moral imperative to help the poor and all but one City Council member showed us their moral failings by voting against monetary support for the center, and coming out against its existence at its current location, with no concrete offer for a better or alternative plan.

I am a 40-year resident of the neighborhood where the new center is located and am proud to have it “in my backyard.” My hope is that with support from all sectors of our community – individuals, organizations, government – we will see this new effort grow to become a sustainable model for serving the poor.

Even this first small step in organizing has the potential to be life-saving and/or life-changing. I will continue to support the efforts of Community Compassion Outreach, Durango Christian Church, Durango Vineyard Church, Manna and all others who are walking their talk by providing for those in greatest need.

Lisa Pedolsky

Durango