‘We need help;’ Area warming shelters in need of volunteers
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY-TV) – As the temperature dips below freezing again on Monday night, many are seeking warmth at area warming shelters.
“Your lungs will literally freeze just by simply breathing,” said Antwan Clinkscales.
Clinkscales has been living in Wilmington for over five years and for the past month has been unhoused.
“They don’t realize how dangerous it is to stay out in this cold, especially at night,” Clinkscales said.
Sunday night, he escaped the cold and stayed at a Warming Shelter ILM location at 401 Grace Street serving men and couples.
Two emergency warming shelter, another at 920 North 6th Street, remain open until 9 a.m. on Tuesday as temperatures remain below 30 degrees.
Scott Heneis, manager of Living Hope Day Center which says their biggest need is getting more volunteers.
“We need help,” Heneis said. “From getting snacks to making coffee to cooking the meals to just being eyes and ears and make sure that everybody has a nice relaxing evening in here, it takes people.”
Warming Shelter ILM said their locations are expecting around 150 people each night. The shelter not only provides a warm place to stay, but food, coats and live music.
“Getting to provide a space especially on these cold nights its just great,” Heneis said.
Clinkscales said it’s important to remember those in need when temperatures drop.
“If you see somebody on the streets, I understand you’re handing someone money you think they are going to go buy drugs or what not but you never know, they might just get a room, simply get a room,” Clinkscales said.
