WINTER Is Here – A DEVASTATING REALITY FOR THE HOMELESS
For homeless, it is no winter wonderland.
The first yellow leaf announces coming of fall, winter; with it, holiday season. Families gather together to celebrate what they are thankful for, their beliefs, family heritage. It is time for hot chocolate cozy blankets, perfect to stay inside…for those who have a home. The pandemic is not helping either.
But for homeless, fall winter cause anxiety. Many will scramble to find decent gently used coats newspaper to stay warm. Some may receive help of community their families to battle weather. But some of our most vulnerable, single homeless adults may not have a support system. Even some families with children find themselves exposed to elements staying outside. Those who sleep outdoors in cold, face risk of dehydration, frostbite, and/or hypothermia.
Hypothermia is a real concern for those not living in comfort of a warm home, if exposed to extreme weather, our bodies’ temperature may drop below 95 F could require immediate emergency attention. As winter approaches, this is a real fear for many homeless individuals families. Resisting harsh weather, without a home nowhere to go, is nearly impossible.
This not only affects homeless, but it also impacts lives of low income families individuals with scarce resources. Many people living indoors may still find themselves suffering from extreme cold weather conditions due to lack of proper heat or electricity. Lack of access to health care or a proper diet may also increase chances of sickness. All of these factors raise concerns in our community, as we strive to serve those who are most vulnerable.
For a homeless person, winter is anything but magical. Here at Belfast And Lisburn Community Project, we are working with our amazing community supporters volunteers to bring some of magic joy of holidays to our community facing homelessness. We believe that with each passing year, we are getting one step closer to no one sleeping outside during cold season. What better time than holiday season to start reaching for that goal? Ask us how you can volunteer, Donate support our programs, if you know of anyone suffering from homelessness, please refer them to Northern IrelHoExecutive provide them with their phone number 0344 892 0900. Let us spread joy this holiday season with those who need it most, by helping them sleep in a warm safe space!
To Donate: Visit our Donation page to see how you can help https://balcproject.org.uk/donation/
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