Emergency Shelters, Resources Needed During Extreme Cold Temperatures

Although the winter storm is over, the cold temperatures remain. The extreme cold that Charlotte is seeing can be very dangerous for those without proper shelter. For those experiencing homelessness in the area, Charlotte advocates are working to help.

The Gray Cole Center shelter opened ahead of the winter storm, but is scheduled to close Tuesday morning. But, officials feel the need is still high to remain open.

WCNC reports that Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office, and the American Red Cross opened the shelter due to the winter storm. While the storm may have passed, officials feel the need for shelters and resources remains high.

“With the rise in homelessness, we don’t have the rise in shelter beds,” Jessica Lefkowitz, founder and executive director of the Hearts for the Invisible Charlotte Coalition, said to WCNC. “We don’t have enough beds for the folks that actually need to access it. It looks nice in the movies, but that’s just not what it is in reality.”

Early data reports that the number of those experiencing homelessness in the area is trending higher than last year.

Officials report that with the Grady Cole Center closing, officials have provided additional resources through partner organizations.

If you are interested in donating to help those in the Charlotte community, donate to Block Love, Roof Above, and Hearts for the Invisible Charlotte Coalition.