If there is one proof of the essential goodness of people, it is how they help those in crisis. Through the recent snow, many people from our town saw each other’s vulnerability and helped by shoveling walks, buying food and checking to see how their neighbors were. Our neighbors also recognized that people who live in Port Townsend without homes are among the most vulnerable.   So many of this community came through our homeless shelter doors, delivering warm socks and clothes, high-energy foods and items to protect people from the cold.  Restaurants gave us commercially prepared foods to serve hot, life-sustaining meals. Church members came to serve the well-being of our guests. And a handful of shelter guests worked long and hard to keep the shelter clean, organized and functional.   All of these people augmented the support of the hundreds organized by the Community Outreach Association Shelter Team (COAST), the fine oversight of OlyCAP employees and the generous provision of a well-equipped facility by the American Legion, Post 26. All acted on their care. These people deserve heartfelt thanks. Their efforts within the context of a shelter supported by Port Townsend’s community and its organizations, like the churches, Rotary and UGN, kept people alive and let us witness the benefit of human care.   CATHE BELL Chair, COAST Port Townsend