'Voices Together' concert to raise money for cold-weather bedding

ARLINGTON — With winter weather on the horizon, local churches are looking to help those who may not have a warm place to sleep.

A collaboration of volunteers will be hosting "Voices Together," a concert featuring area church choirs, musicians and performers, at 2 p.m., Oct. 4, at the Byrnes Performing Arts Center at Arlington High School.

Proceeds from the concert will go toward purchasing emergency cold weather bedding for area residents who do not have a place to stay, said Virginia Hatch, event organizer.

"There are currently no shelters in Marysville or Arlington — you have to go to Everett," Hatch said. "The Arlington Rotary Club purchased a trailer, and funds from this (concert) will go toward buying bedding within the trailer."

Hatch said many local churches provide emergency winter shelter to area residents on a rotating basis, Hatch said. When the temperature reaches a certain level, the city will bring supplies and bedding to a particular church under the current system.

The idea for the event came out of a task force set up by Deena Jones, Pastor at the Arlington United Church, to respond to an increasing demand on area organizations such as the Arlington Community Food Bank.

A number of churches are now involved, Hatch said.

"We've had a really good response," she said.

Choirs from seven churches will be performing in the concert, Hatch said.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children.

For more information, contact Hatch at 360-403-1011.

Contact Arlington Times Reporter Adam Rudnick at arudnick@arlingtontimes.com or 360-659-1300 Ext. 5056.

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