OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - We saw it falling all throughout Thursday with lots of snow joining this recent spell of really cold weather. This type of winter weather brings problems for a very vulnerable population and the homeless alliance told KFOR they’ve been stretching capacity trying to keep people safe and warm.
"The homeless alliance is providing 24/7 shelter from the weather between our shelter, which is open from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and then our winter shelter from which is open from 4 p.m. to 7 a.m.,” Chief Communications Officer with the Homeless Alliance Taylor Self said.
Falling snow and cold weather brings about busy times for the Homeless Alliance and other city shelters.
"We wouldn't have it any other way,” Self said. “Again, when temperatures and weather get this bad, there's no other option."
Their day shelter usually serves about 350 people per day with meals, showers, mail service and more. Wednesday, Self said they saw about 450.
"That is definitely crowded,” she said.
They also brought dogs inside from their outdoor kennels they use to help with people’s companions. During weather like this, Self said they make room so they don’t turn people away.
"It's really important that people are kept safe," she said.
The shelter could use donations this time of year, according to Self. Money can be donated on their website, homelessalliance.org, or any cold weather gear and clothing is also a big help.
"We're going to make sure that our friends are safe because these people are our neighbors,” Self said.
Their winter shelter is also operating over capacity, according to Self. Their website has a list of different items they need if you’re able to help out.
