BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — As the weather changes from hot to cold, many shelters in the area are gearing up for what’s expected to be a cold winter.
Once the temperature drops below 39 degrees, St. Vincent de Paul expands their nightly capacity. CEO and President Michael Acaldo said last year they housed 26,000 people and that number is expected to increase to 30,000 this winter season.
In addition to food, shelter and clothing, the organization offers case management resources to get people off the streets and back into society.
“Our goal ultimately is to get people housed quickly, efficiently and really help them to break the cycle of homelessness,” said Acaldo.
Acaldo said as cooler temperatures arrive, rain gear, umbrellas, hats, gloves, blankets and towels are a necessity.
“If you’re walking a lot for transportation, that can really be difficult if you get caught in the rain. It’s bad when it rains, it’s bad when it’s cold, but when it’s raining or cold, that’s really when those who are experiencing homelessness suffer,” said Acaldo.
If you see someone living on the streets, Acaldo said you can go to St. Vincent de Paul’s website and print off “hope cards” to give to people experiencing homelessness.
Later in November, BRProud will celebrate its 30-year partnership with St. Vincent de Paul by holding a supply drive.
