TYLER (KYTX) - As most of us prepare for another night of freezing temperatures at home, one can't help but worry about those left without shelter or indoor heat. CBS 19's Amanda Roberson explains how local non-profits are stepping up to help provide warmth.
After the temperatures dropped and snow fell, the Salvation Army saw a 20-percent increase in residents Sunday night. Now that the cold temps are lingering, both the Salvation Army and PATH are asking the community to practice a little extra generosity.
"Had to bundle up. It was freezing on the inside of my place," explained PATH client Shalandria Dawson. She and her uncle are among dozens relying on PATH for food and a blanket to stay warm. "A lot of people out here doesn't have heat or either can't afford to turn the heat on because they're on this fixed salary and it's real hard."
It's a challenge PATH Director, Christina Fulsom said she sees all too often."I see people who not long ago were on their own and self-sufficient and making ends meet and something happened that put them in a position where they can no longer do that on their own."
Fulsom said the need for two of their services always rises when temperatures drop. "It's important for us at this time of year to have a lot of blankets on hand that we can give away to those families and also to have funds to help them pay for their propane or their natural gas so they can keep their homes warm."
"We are seeing the effects of the cold weather," added Salvation Army employee Vicki Hastings. She said the center is also feeling the heat to help the community. They give out roughly 50 blankets weekly to the community, but supplies are low this season. "We have blankets for those that stay with us, but for those that come in needing blankets it's a big deal because they don't have enough money to raise the heat up to meet the cold weather outside."
It's a soft, warm, simple donation, helping East Texans embrace the chilly weather. "Stay in the house as much as possible," Dawson added. "Have my heater going and wrapped up in my blanket."
For people without a place to sleep during these frigid temps, the Salvation Army is open 24 hours and ready to house guests around the clock. The center can sleep 200 people comfortably, but will accommodate more if need be.
Donations can be dropped off at the PATH office, located at 402 West Front Street in Tyler. The center is open 8:30am-4:30pm.
The Salvation Army is located at 633 North Broadway Avenue in Tyler.
