Despite Harsh Winter and the Economy, Programs are Working
The winter's been unusually cold and it's the 3rd snowiest on record for Traverse City. Unemployment has been increasing as the economy struggles. Yet, Safe Harbor is seeing fewer people spending their nights in homeless shelters.
The Safe Harbor program starts in November and continues through April, providing shelter at at least 20 Traverse City area churches.
Last year, the number of bed nights (beds needed for overnight stays) through February was 2,689. This year for the same time period, that number is down by 26 to 2,663.
Wayne Sternenberg, who is actively involved in the program says the slight decline may indicate how well the program works.
Safe Harbor works with the Goodwill Inn, Third Level Crisis Center, CMH and other organizations to help people after they leave the shelters. The collaborative effort puts people in housing and keeps communication open to make sure they are receiving any aid money they're entitled to and are able to pay the rent.
The lower numbers this year are encouraging to volunteers, but they say help is always needed.
Sternenberg says 75 to 100 volunteers are involved in a number of ways on a weekly basis. Some prepare food, clean, or provide social interaction.
To volunteer, you can contact the Goodwill Inn or any of the churches involved in the program.
www.gtsafeharbor.org
