Warming center sees record numbers during bitterly cold weather

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A York County warming center is seeing record numbers as the area prepares for another week of bitter cold temperatures.

Emily Sutton, pastor of Bethel United Methodist Church in Rock Hill, knew from the beginning that something was different this year. On the first night that the church's shelter was open, 31 guests needed assistance. On the first night last year, the number of guests was less than half of that.

"This is just a huge increase," Sutton said.

Sutton said her warming center is serving around 56 men a night. In the past, that number was around 25.

No one has been turned away but, due to a lack of cots, some men have had to sleep on the floor.

"They are just grateful to have a safe and warm place to rest. They are just grateful for this place," she said.

Sutton believes the affordable housing crisis is playing a role in the increase in service.

It's a problem that is familiar to Charlotte. City leaders are currently trying to build 5,000 units in three years and they're more than halfway to the goal.

In the Queen City, the Center of Hope is putting mats on the floors to allow 50 more women and children to sleep inside. That's in addition to about 400 people who sleep there daily.

Channel 9 spoke with a Inez Gray, who said she has been staying at the center for about eight weeks with her daughter and three grandchildren. She said she's grateful for the space.

"At least we'll be able to sleep and not be out on the street," Gray said. "My prayer goes out to those on the street."

Urban Ministry volunteers have also been handing out winter weather gear.

Volunteers said that same gear is desperately needed in Rock Hill.

"They flock in here on cold nights," volunteer Sylvia Kennedy said. "Winter jackets, warm winter jackets are needed.”

Even with the increase in numbers, Sutton is thankful her church is able to help

"It's a very rewarding ministry," she said.

In addition to clothing donations, Sutton said the warming center needs monetary donations and cots.

Three churches are helping with overflow for the warming center -- Hope Baptist, Park Baptist and His Church. Monetary donations will go to provide an overnight security officer at His Church.

For more information on the warming center, visit its website.

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