Meck County expands shelter capacities for cold weather

CHARLOTTE — In response to the bitter cold and the winter storm forecasted to impact counties east of Charlotte, several agencies are working together to protect people who are experiencing homelessness.

In a news release, Mecklenburg County leaders said it already worked with Roof Above and the Salvation Army Center of Hope to expand the capacity for shelter beds in the community because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The larger capacity has allowed shelters to practice social distancing at all locations, county leaders said. They said the health department’s COVID-19 unit will keep providing resources as needed to shelters.

The shelters expanded their capacity and access on Jan. 28, and are expecting to be available until at least Jan. 30 due to the expected winter storm.

Mecklenburg County has deployed outreach teams to homeless encampments to encourage people living without housing to visit a shelter. The teams give out blankets and coats if their offers to come to the shelter are refused.

Leaders said those teams are still reaching out and the county will closely monitor shelter use.

For Men:

Roof Above provides shelter for men and expanded its capacity by adding mats at its shelters. To access this shelter, men may come on site to the Lucille Giles Men’s Shelter at 3410 Statesville Avenue, Charlotte starting at 4:30 p.m.

Roof Above will operate its Day Services Center from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. There will be limited indoor seating as well as access to restrooms. Masks will be required for entry. In addition, there will also be outdoor seating with radiated heaters in a manner that meets Mecklenburg County Public Health guidelines.

For Women & Families:

Salvation Army Center of Hope provides shelter for single women and families. During an extreme weather event, the Center expands capacity by 50 beds at its Center of Hope shelter (534 Spratt Street, Charlotte).

Women and families may access this shelter by calling 2-1-1 or by going to the shelter at 534 Spratt Street, Charlotte between 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Transportation:

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) buses will transport individuals to these shelter locations free of charge from Jan. 20 through Jan. 23 during the day. Riders must simply identify a shelter location to the driver.

Mecklenburg County and its partners will continue to monitor the weather and community needs.

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