For those who have a warm home, winter can be a magical season filled with cozy blankets, hot chocolate and warm fires. However, winter can be problematic for homeless people and low income families. Dehydration, frostbite, and/or hypothermia are just a few of the concerns for those who sleep outdoors in the cold.
The Center for the Disease Control and Prevention reported that from 1999 to 2011, a total of 16,911 deaths in the United States, an average of 1,301 per year, were associated with exposure to excessive, natural cold. The highest yearly total of hypothermia-related deaths (1,536) was in 2010. Approximately 67% of hypothermia-related deaths were among males.
Until next Tuesday (January 14th, 2020), you can leave jackets, hats and gloves outside the Beaty Public Safety Training and Support Center at 1200 Patterson Ave in Winston-Salem, NC. That spot was chosen because it’s less than 2 miles from four homeless shelters in the city. Individuals in need can come by and select items to help them stay warm.
This undertaking, called The Warm For The Holiday Coat Collection, is being done as a partnership between the mayor of Winston-Salem, Allen Joines and Red H.E.A.R.T.T.
Homeless populations are particularly vulnerable since they have significantly fewer places to take refuge from the weather and less ways to protect themselves outside. If you miss the deadline for the Warm For Winter Coat Collection Incentive, here are some other things you can do to help.
While there are lots of amazing places that make a difference in the lives of homeless people, the Frank Myers Auto Maxx Team encourages you to support the Winston-Salem Rescue Mission.
For over 50 years, they have changed lives and had an impact on people by providing Christ-filled, enriched and compassionate services to those in desperate need. You can make a donation to the Winston-Salem Rescue Mission at https://www.wsrescue.org/donate-now
Your gift today provides:
If you don't have the money to donate or the supplies to give them, the least you can do when you pass a homeless person who is out on the street is smile and say hello. It’s a simple gesture that reminds them that they are still human and not invisible.
