As colder weather approaches, OBX Room In The Inn is preparing to open its doors on November 1, 2026, marking its 18th season of providing food, clothing, shelter, and support services to adults experiencing homelessness across the Outer Banks.
Since 2009, OBX Room In The Inn (RITI) has been a lifeline for some of our community’s most vulnerable neighbors, offering more than just a warm bed and a hot meal. The organization provides a safe, welcoming environment where individuals can find stability, dignity, and hope for a better tomorrow.
The need for these services continues to grow. During the 2025–2026 shelter season, RITI experienced a 25% increase in demand, providing 2,164 room nights and 6,492 meals, with the average guest age being 49.
One of the organization’s greatest accomplishments last season was helping 16 individuals secure long-term housing, made possible through a generous $20,000 grant from the Outer Banks Community Foundation. The funding assisted with security deposits, removing a significant financial barrier for individuals working toward permanent housing.
“While providing a warm bed and a hot meal is incredibly important, our ultimate goal is to help people move beyond homelessness,” said Shari Fiveash of OBX Room In The Inn. “Helping 16 people find a place to call home last season was an incredible accomplishment. These are our neighbors, and everyone deserves an opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
Beginning November 1, shelter intake will be held daily, seven days a week, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the organization’s intake center, located at 111 W. Carlton Avenue in Kill Devil Hills. All incoming guests must complete an intake packet, present a valid government-issued ID, and successfully complete a drug screening, breathalyzer test, and background check before being transported to the shelter facility in Nags Head.
Once at the shelter, guests are welcomed with a hot evening meal and access to showers, laundry facilities, and a clean bed. The shelter provides a safe place to rest, recharge, and prepare for the next day. Each morning, guests receive breakfast and a sack lunch before departing for the day. Beyond overnight shelter, the organization works to connect individuals with resources and services that encourage independence, stability, and long-term housing opportunities.
OBX Room In The Inn’s mission remains simple: to provide food, clothing, and shelter to adults experiencing homelessness across the Outer Banks during the winter months, while offering support services year-round.
Shari Fiveash and Tanya Negron, who oversee the program, are looking forward to another season of serving neighbors in need. Both recognize that the organization’s continued success would not be possible without the generosity of the Outer Banks community.
“None of what we do would be possible without the incredible support of our churches, volunteers, donors, local businesses, and community partners,” said Fiveash. “As we prepare to open for our 18th season, we are reminded once again of just how special this community is. It truly takes a village, and we are grateful to be part of one that continues to show up for our neighbors in need.”
As the organization prepares for another busy winter, community support remains essential. Donations help provide meals, shelter, clothing, and critical services to individuals facing homelessness. Those wishing to support the mission can make a contribution online at www.obxroomintheinn.org.
For more information about shelter services, or ways to support OBX Room In The Inn, please call 252-255-1133.
As the doors open for another season, the message remains the same: Everyone deserves a safe place to sleep, a warm meal, and the opportunity for a better tomorrow.
