Rain, Snow, Frigid Temperatures Taking a Toll on Salem-Area Homeless, Resources

Area homeless shelters are in desperate need of blankets, coats, socks, and food supplies.

(SALEM) - The recent rain, snow and fridged temperatures that have hit the Salem-area over the last few weeks, has taken a toll on area homeless and those who are trying to help them find a better life. Officials at the Union Gospel Mission’s men’s shelter, located at 345 Commercial St. NE in downtown Salem, say they have been seeing a steady increase in the number of homeless men seeking shelter from the cold, wet weather. That is the same for the women’s shelter at 5119 River Road N. in Keizer. The men’s mission has been averaging over 200 a night, while the women’s shelter, Simonka Place, remains full with 60 women and children. Officials want to remind residents that if they see someone, or know of someone that is homeless, to urge them to come to either shelter for assistance. If they are full, they will do their best to find them other shelter. Area homeless agenicies are also in desprite need of winter weather clothing, and food. The Union Gospel Mission serves over 600 meals a day. If you can help, please drop-off items at the following locations: Union Gospel Mission Men’s Shelter : 345 Commercial St. NE Union Gospel Mission Thrift Store: 885 Commercial St. NE Cash donations can be made by calling: (503) 362-3983 Salvation Army: Social Service/Shelter1887 Front St NE The Salvation Army Salem Thrift Store 162 Lancaster Dr NE Cash donations can be made by calling (503) 585-6688. Also donations of new winter coats are being sought by some Salem-Keizer schools for low income youths. To donate, contact the Salem-Keizer school nearest to you. Needed food items:

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Debbie Kenemore January 1, 2009 6:51 pm (Pacific time)

Hello, I do not know I can send this--but I am trying to locate my son. Dewayne A. Huddleston. t has been known to me and his family that he had stayed at the Union Gospel Mission. His family misses him very much so--and we want the chance to tell him--how much he is loved. Please if any--please relay a message to him to let him know we--his family--love him very much and want him safe to return home. If you have any info--please e-mail me at lovingheart0518@yahoo.com or call mom (Debbie) 903-785-6383 or 903-249-7084 or (his sister) 405-779-0281 or (his brother) 903-517-8124. We would appreciate anyone who knows Dewayne to contact us at either one of those numbers. He is greatly missed and we have not had any contact with him in over 15 months. We want this to be a great year with the safe return of our son and or brother. Thank-you

Mr. December 5, 2006 8:45 am (Pacific time)

All year long, if people would do one kind thing for the homeless of anyone else at the bottom (without judgement or qualification), it would reduce human suffering so much. The older you get the more you realize that even people that seem to have it made are suffering in one form or another. These people are really suffering....disgarded by their communities, rejected by or they chose to reject the world for a reason that is none of our business.

Henry Ruark December 1, 2006 3:47 pm (Pacific time)

Fine story, Kevin...moved me to set up several packets, food and eats, going to several agencies. Thanks for timely reminder, which is needed.

Albert Marnell December 1, 2006 1:39 pm (Pacific time)

Thank God that people step in where government does not! We have billions of dollars that go for corporate welfare and imperialistic conflicts like Iraq but our citizens (these people are our fellow countrymen) have to beg for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Does anyone ever think how severe the medical conditions of these people are from exposure, lack of mental and physical health and the pain that comes along with this? God Bless America land of the free rich people.

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