Weather & Economy Affecting Demand for Shelters

Last night, WCNC aired this story on how the weather and economy are affecting the demand for homeless shelters in Charlotte. Cold temperatures have arrived in Charlotte earlier than usual and combined with economic uncertainty and a housing crisis, this means increased demand for local homeless shelters.

Tony Burbeck reports:

At the Charlotte Rescue Mission, hot meals cooked here then given to the Emergency Winter Shelter for men are up 30 percent.

"Sometimes it becomes harder for people that are in crisis to either get jobs or hold onto jobs,” said Rev. Tony Marciano.

It's important to realize two things about Charlotte Rescue Mission. While we are affected by the economy and to some degree the weather, our beds stay full year round. We always have a waiting list. But on the other hand, as WCNC reported, we do feel the increased demand of food preparation this time of the year because we prepare the meals for the Emergency Winter Shelter.

Like anyone else, the economic impact for us can be significant. We rely entirely on private donations as we do not accept any government or United Way funding.