The Kansas City region hasn’t been this cold in December since 1989. It’s putting a strain on homeless shelters as individuals and families seek warmth.
The National Weather Service office in Pleasant Hill has issued a windchill warning for the region stating, “Strong northwest winds are expected today gusting up to 40 mph. This will create dangerous wind chill values of 25 to 40 degrees below zero today and tonight. More detailed information can be accessed at their website.
The frigid winter temperatures are causing an influx of homeless men, women and families at City Union Mission which has instituted its Winter Weather Emergency Procedures. The Christ-centered non-profit provides shelter, meals, clothing, spiritual guidance and case management in a Christian environment.
The mission has joined other regional entities and opened two warming centers.
One is at their Men’s Shelter located at 1108 E 10th St. It’s open from 8am – 7:30pm. The second is at their Women and Family Shelter (1310 Wabash Ave.) with two sessions—Morning 8am – 1pm and Afternoon 1pm – 4pm. Those in the warming center may call the hotline for reservations for a bed or family room and will be assigned as space is available. Vacancy for bed space is first come, first served so sometimes, there’s no space.
The public is being asked to help in the care of these homeless individuals. You can do so in a number of different way. Donations of peanut butter, canned pears or peaches, canned green beans, and also toilet paper are always appreciated to help care for their guests and provide them with hot, nutritious meals. Monetary gifts are also needed to help cover the costs of the Mission’s utility bills, which increase as the weather grows colder and the number of guests rises.
Donations to the Mission can be made online at cityunionmisson.org.
–Dwight Widaman | MV