Salvation Army offering shelter, supplies ahead of frigid weather

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - Salvation Army crews are working hard to collect resources for unhoused community members as dangerously cold temperatures move in.

For neighbors who don’t have shelter, having supplies and a warm place to stay becomes urgent. Frigid temperatures are on the way later this week, and for those without a home, it can be dangerous, even deadly, as they reach the single digits.

Leaders with the Fort Wayne Salvation Army say they are doing everything they can to help those in need, including having a warming center in their chapel.

“During our normal business hours, which is Monday through Friday 8 to 4, they can come in out of the cold and get warm,” Salvation Army of Fort Wayne leader Dena Smith says. “On Sundays, during the time that we have church, which is 9:30 to 12:30, they also would be able to come in.”

They say they are also collecting new items at this time, such as coats gloves, clothes, hand warmers, and all the winter essentials. They also have a shower program, a free service open to anyone who needs a safe warm place to shower.

Smith says the weather coming at the end of this week and the beginning of next week can leave folks vulnerable and in need of help.

“That‘s really when the Salvation Army wants to step in and say, ‘We’re here to help this community,’” Smith says.

To donate to the Salvation Army’s efforts, you can visit their website here.

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