With lows hovering near freezing, shelters will operate above normal capacity to protect those experiencing homelessness.
Lakeland’s shelters are preparing to support the unhoused during a cold snap that is expected to last through next week.
Both Talbot House Ministries and Lighthouse Ministries are operating above capacity during these cold temperatures to ensure the safety of those experiencing homelessness.
The shelters also both provide food, blankets, warm clothes, and coats. They are always accepting donations.
Lighthouse Ministries
Lighthouse Ministries’ Gospel Rescue Mission provides services for unhoused and at-risk men. “When the temperature is below 45 degrees, we work to ensure that there is room for homeless men in need on these cold nights at the Lighthouse Gospel Rescue Mission,” said Rob Clark, director of communications.
“It is harsh, and it’s hard,” said Lighthouse Ministries Executive Director Steve Turbeville. There have been times during cold weather incidents that the shelter has operated at double its normal capacity, but that meant people were sleeping on the floor, he said.
Now, said Turbeville, they provide safe and comfortable shelter for as many men as possible, then work to connect additional men in need with alternative resources.
Check-in at the Gospel Rescue Mission at 117 E. Magnolia St. begins at 3:30 p.m. each day, and individuals leave after breakfast the next morning, around 5:30 or 6 a.m. All fees are waved when the temperature is below 45 degrees.
Talbot House Ministries
Talbot House Ministries provides clothing, laundry, showers, and bedding during cold-weather emergencies. “Our doors will remain open to welcome our unhoused neighbors during this cold spell, and we will operate under emergency overflow procedures,” said Maria Cruz, executive director of Talbot House Ministries.
During cold temperatures, the shelter at 814 North Kentucky Ave. will provide shelter to as many people in need as possible. Guests will have the option to remain indoors to ensure their safety and comfort.
Typically, Talbot House averages around 100 guests each night. The facility can accommodate up to 250 guests if all spaces — including hallways, offices and conference rooms — are utilized,” Cruz said.