Low On Shelters; The Need is High

Newark, Ohio is a small, diverse town located outside of Columbus. Many Ohioans don’t know the small town exists. Throughout the years Newark has been home to many people. This year, 2020, is full of hate, crime, and disease. Those who live in their safe homes can escape from their reality… and those who can’t, have nowhere to go.

This year, the homeless population is at an all-time high. Many walk the streets with no place to go. In the last two years, the city council noticed the number of people sleeping in the benches outside the courthouse. Being out in the harsh weather can give frostbite, hypothermia, slow breathing, and confusion within a few minutes if the temperature is low enough and the wind is strong. Shelters are an option if there is room. Many shelters are helping the homeless but there is not enough room to house everyone. Beds are limited and there are not enough shelters to keep up with the rising rates. Some of the local options are The Salvation Army and church, Saint Vincent de Paul, who have been putting effort into getting people off of the street.

Executive director of The United Way in Licking County Jennifer Roberts said “What we can agree on is, yes, we need a low barrier shelter” She also mentioned that there may be a buyer who could support a new shelter but gave no other answers. The best idea right now is to use the old shut down Family Dollar on E. Main St. The problem is that there is no one who would be willing to run the shelter. It would take financial support and volunteers to put the shelter together. The Family Dollar would be a low-barrier shelter who would not turn away criminals, addicts, or mental health. Perhaps this will be the next home to the homeless in Newark Ohio.

If you want to make an impact in your community, go to any local churches, food shelters, anywhere that would have a charity. Ask to help, they always need a hand. If you cannot help out you can always send money, canned foods, water, hygiene, and feminine products. Our community is strong and we can work together to accomplish anything we set our mind to.

https://www.wvxu.org/post/ohios-homeless-population-went-2019-mostly-columbus-and-rural-areas#stream/0