As temperatures increase in Jacksonville, so too does the number of homeless men, women and children in search of shelter.
Changing Homelessness provides services in Duval, Clay and Nassau counties. And according to its CEO Dawn Gilman, the hot summer months are when shelters see an increase in families.
“Extreme heat, like we are experiencing, can cause heat stroke; quick dehydration,” Gilman said, “and a lot of other things that are really hard on a human being, especially if you are outside all day and night for multiple days.”
Gilman said local shelters are stepping up to provide additional resources. City Rescue Mission now opens its doors at 1:30 p.m. daily, and the Sulzbacher Center, which provides showering facilities, is open 24 hours.
To help meet the increased demand, both shelters are asking for donations of bottled water, bug spray, sunscreen, hats and lip balm. The Sulzbacher Center is also asking for underwear, socks, wash cloths and towels.
If you are in need of assistance or have items you would like to donate, you can reach Changing Homelessness at (904) 354-1100 for more information.