Homeless shelters at full capacity as cold temps start to settle in

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – The cold, winter temperatures are starting to settle in the Fargo-Moorhead area. That will have major impacts on the homeless population.

Homeless shelters in the region are already facing capacity issues. Churches United said on the phone they are concerned about these cold temperatures and they feel like they are under water due to the demand. Rob Swiers is the executive director at the New Life Center, and said the center has been dealing with full capacity since August. Even after adding more beds in October, those were filled up in three days.

However, Swiers noted that these homeless shelters are needed, especially when facing the winter months.

“On any given night there are roughly a thousand people in the FM area who find themselves in a homeless situation,” said Swiers. “If we did not have these service providers our community would be facing many individuals in the street freezing to death. And that thankfully is what we are working hard to try to make sure it doesn’t happen.”

Swiers said the network of shelters in the region is crucial for those facing homelessness. Because they can easily get a hold of each other and help someone even if the shelter is at a full capacity. This includes Churches United, New Life Center, Gladys Ray and many others, who are helping those in need.

“Our job is to try to assist them in whatever way we can,” said Swiers. “With so many people in town looking for help, we are fortunate and blessed to be able to have the other shelter providers. Even the city of Fargo is leaning into this, the challenges before us in a place like the Downtown Engagement Center.”

If you are needing help, you can contact 2-1-1.