Durham Rescue Mission offers warm shelter amid dangerous cold
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Durham Rescue Mission has activated "Operation RESCUE," supporting those who are experiencing homelessness stay safe during dangerously low temperatures in the Triangle.
Temps are expected to drop into the 20s Friday night, increasing the risk of hypothermia. The organization said they send out teams Friday morning to locate homeless encampments and offer for them to seek refuge at the Mission.
From giving out essential supplies, to offering warm shelter and hot meals, CEO Rob Tart said the initiative to make emergency space to provide warm shelter has been going on for at least three decades and the demand is growing.
Over 500 people are staying the Mission's shelter Friday night, he said.
They will also be providing 'Bags of Hope,' which includes an emergency blanket, socks and hand warmers.
Leon Davis, who has found refuge at the Durham Rescue Mission, emphasizes the importance of staying warm during freezing weather.
"For somebody that's out there in this type of weather ... the cold is nothing to play with," Davis said.
The Durham Rescue Mission said warm shelter, hot meals and essential services will continue to be offered for as long as the freezing temperatures persist.
"Come on in and get out of the cold," Tart said. "We're going to take care of you."
