x
Breaking News
More () »

Cold weather creates additional COVID-19 challenges in homeless shelters

The Downtown Rescue Mission says their numbers actually dipped during the pandemic, but they are starting to see their numbers go back up.

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — The cold temperatures are leading to more people seeking shelter at the Huntsville Downtown Rescue Mission.

The mission says their numbers actually dipped during the pandemic, but with temperatures dropping below freezing, they're starting to see their numbers go back up.

Now with COVID-19 surging across North Alabama, an influx of people is creating challenges for the shelter.

Downtown Rescue Mission Director of Ministries, Jay West, said "We have more stuff to do and we run through resources much faster, so our biggest giving time of the year is in December, and then after Christmas, there's a big drop off really until people start getting their income taxes back."

West says January through March is when they typically get fewer donations even though the need is usually bigger in the colder months.

Right now, the Downtown Rescue Mission needs canned goods, hygiene products, socks, and new underwear.

For more ways to give, click here.

SPREADING SMILES:

Before You Leave, Check This Out