Homeless Shelters Cope With The Heat
By: Paul Sweazy
Updated: July 31, 2012
Last July, Ashley Maxfield was in need of a safe cool place. She found shelter and security at the Shreveport/Bossier Rescue mission, where she now works as a receptionist.
"When I came out of the heat into the cool fresh air it was actually a lot better than being out - out there in the heat and hot sun. Blazing hot sun actually."
Had Ashley not found the Rescue Mission, she would have suffered through temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. The Rescue Mission's D.J. Hejtmanek says as this Summer has heated up many homeless are doing what Ashley did; seeking the comfort of air-conditioning indoors.
"Especially late afternoon we're seeing an influx when it really gets warm."
The Rescue Mission's population fluctuates with the temperature. Beds fill up quickly during cold Winters and hot Summers. Hejtmanek says the Rescue Mission is 98% full at the moment, but if you need stable and cool housing this Summer, don't hesitate to come in for some help.
"This is what we do on a year round basis so anytime it's hot or cold or stormy we're ready."
You can call the Rescue Mission at (318) 227-2868, or visit their shelter at 901 McNeil Street in Shreveport.
