HOUSTON – As Houston faces its coldest temperatures of the winter so far, shelters are gearing up to support those most vulnerable to the extreme cold – the homeless.
This winter, freezing temperatures in the 30s and gusty winds are expected to challenge those living on the streets, and local shelters are feeling the pressure.
Freezing temps pose a serious threat
A freeze warning from the National Weather Service is now in effect, with temperatures rapidly plummeting. The city is preparing for several days of cold weather, though it’s not expected to be as severe as the infamous 2021 freeze. Still, the impact of arctic air and strong winds will make conditions especially dangerous for the homeless population.
Star of Hope’s response to growing need
At the Star of Hope shelter, staff are seeing an increase in the number of people seeking refuge as the temperatures continue to drop. The women and children’s shelter, which can accommodate nearly 500 people, and the men’s shelter, which holds around 300, are already reaching capacity. The shelter is stepping up its efforts with outreach initiatives to ensure that people on the streets are kept safe.
Scott Arthur, a representative from Star of Hope, shared that the organization’s “Love in Action” van is playing a crucial role in helping those who can’t find a bed at the shelter. The van is stocked with essentials like blankets, gloves, scarves, and warm socks to offer some comfort and warmth to those braving the harsh weather.
“We’re reaching out with our ‘Love in Action’ van, full of blankets and other supplies to help people feel a little bit warmer and battle the cold,” Arthur said.
Preventing dangerous choices
As part of their outreach, the Star of Hope team is focused on preventing people from making potentially deadly decisions in these freezing conditions. Arthur highlighted that every year, some people attempt to weather the cold with alcohol or drugs, only to tragically pass away due to the cold.
“There are people who think they can survive the night with some drugs or a bottle of wine,” Arthur explained. “But we try to tell them, don’t do that, because every year we find out that more people who do that don’t wake up.”
How you can help
With shelter beds quickly filling up, Star of Hope is asking for donations from the public. Blankets, coats, hats, and other warm clothing items are urgently needed. Donations can be dropped off at their distribution center on Lamar Street or at the Cornerstone Community location on Reed Road.
“We’ve been putting everything together for days, and now we need the community’s help to provide warmth and safety for those in need,” Arthur added.
For those hoping to contribute, donations can make a big difference in the lives of Houston’s homeless population during these dangerous cold spells.
