United Way, Salvation Army partner to help provide shelter in extreme weather shelter

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo – (KBSI) – Missouri winter storms can be brutal with ice, sleet, and snow piled high. The temperatures dip below freezing and being without a warm place to go is beyond concerning.

United Way of Southeast Missouri and The Salvation Army are teaming up to help those who need cover during severe storms.

The newly renovated gymnasium at The Salvation Army will serve as host to those who need it.

“Now they are able to open their facility to people needing shelter during extreme weather, and because they have a kitchen there, they’ll be able to provide a meal,” said Elizabeth Shelton, executive director of the Southeast Missouri United Way.

The need for volunteers is urgent. Those who wish to volunteer must take a three-hour safety and abuse prevention training from safe from harm.

“And now what we really need are volunteers,” said Shelton. “The people in this community are so concerned about our homeless, especially during the terrible weather that we have sometimes in the winter. And so now is their opportunity to make a difference and really help.”

Donating canned goods, sturdy socks, or little travel items for the homeless is needed.