Last week a record number of homeless people in the Triad had to sleep on the floor at Greensboro Urban Ministry’s Weaver House due to the extreme windy and cold weather.
The 100 permanent beds at the organization's Weaver House were filled, 62 people spent the night on mats on the floor, and 87 people were housed at Winter Emergencyshelter sites at several different churches.
For the past two winters the recession coupled with the cold weather, has seen a consitent spike in the numbers of homeless seeking aid from the non profit.
On Thursday, WFDD's David Ford spoke with Greensboro Urban Ministry Executive Director Reverand Mike Aiken who explained the current situation on the ground heading into the holidays.
[Interview]
Urban Ministry receives funding support from the United Way’s Operation Greensboro Cares, the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, and other sources to operate the Winter Emergency shelter sites in the community.
This year Urban Ministry must raise just over $100,000 to continue funding their homeless support operations.
They're currently seaking volunteers to assist the churches which plan to open additional Winter Emergency Shelters.
Individuals interested in volunteering can contact Volunteer Services at Urban Ministry: (336) 271-5959 extension 347.
