United Way struggling to provide shelter as temperatures drop

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) -The United Way is depending on community members for support after a request for an overnight shelter was denied by Cape Girardeau City Council.

The Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau doesn’t have enough volunteers to open overnight as temperatures drop below freezing, leaving those in need with nowhere to go.

The United Way is struggling to provide funding and volunteers to the various organizations needing resources to help keep people warm through the winter nights.

A plan to provide a temporary overnight shelter to those in need was presented to the Cape Girardeau City Council on behalf of United Way of Southeast Missouri, The Salvation Army, First Call For Help, and Community Partnership. Unfortunately, at the November 20th meeting, four members comprising the majority voted against providing funding to shelter our homeless neighbors and save lives during extreme winter weather.

They need your help.

A virtual meeting will be held on Thursday, November 30, for anyone interested in helping.

Any business, individual, church, or organization is welcome to attend the meeting.

To learn more or to sign up for the meeting click the link below and fill out the form to get a link sent to you so you can attend virtually.