The winter season is upon us and as we revel in summer nostalgia, we must prepare ourselves for the cold road ahead. Winter weather can bring many cozy comforts but it can also pose significant challenges to individuals with disabilities or those experiencing homelessness. That is why preparing for cold temperatures, power outages and other winter-related risks is important. This blog post will provide tips and local resources for those housed and unhoused during this winter season.
Preparation for Those Living at Home:
People living at home still need to be prepared for winter’s worst conditions. This could include power outages that cause broken heating systems to medicine shortages due to transportation delays. This checklist will ensure those living at home will be ready for the coldest temperatures this season.
Checklist for Housed Individuals:
-Protect Your Pipes and Water Supply: To ensure you have running water in your home, take the necessary steps to prevent frozen pipes. A few examples of prevention are running faucets on freezing nights, insulating your pipes and covering any outdoor faucets.
-Prepare Heat Sources: Heat is one of the most crucial resources during the winter. Check space heaters, use generators properly and ensure other heat sources are accessible like battery-operated options for those with mobility issues.
-Prepare for Power Outages: While you cannot control the power grid and possible outages, you can control how you handle the situation. Stock up on batteries, blankets, non-perishable foods, a battery-operated radio and flashlights to guarantee safety and security. Don’t forget to stock up on emergency supplies such as extra medication and basic first-aid supplies!
Preparation for Those Experiencing Homelessness:
For those who know someone experiencing homelessness, the winter season can bring about more life-threatening challenges than those faced by housed individuals. Below is a separate checklist with tips and local resources to ensure the safety of unhoused individuals during the strenuous winter season. If you know someone who can benefit from these resources, please share!
Checklist for Unhoused Individuals:
-Food and Warm Clothing: Staying warm is a major safety concern for those experiencing homelessness, making it important to know where you can receive assistance. Many non-profit organizations in the Charleston area will provide aid to those with little to no income or housing.
For free meals and winter clothing, consider contacting the Neighborhood House at (843) 805-8064. In addition to meals and clothing, they provide health and financial assistance by appointment. Visit their website for more information: www.olmoutreach.org
Lowcountry Food Bank is another great local option that has been serving South Carolina since 1983! Visit them in person at 2854 Azalea Dr., Charleston, SC 29405, or give them a call today at (843) 747-8146.
-Locating Warming Shelters: For unhoused individuals, warming shelters are always an option to escape the cold temperature. Many local churches and non-profit organizations will open their doors to shelter those experiencing homelessness. Some even provide a warm meal. Many of these shelters have a temperature-based opening schedule. Here are a few to consider:
Holy City Missions: 1444 Remount Road, North Charleston
Seacoast Summerville Warming Center: 301 E. 5th N. Street, Summerville
Hibbing UMC Warming Center: 690 Coleman Boulevard, Mount Pleasant
Whether housed or unhoused this winter, taking the proper steps can help you make the season more manageable. Make arrangements and a plan before the cold temperatures arrive to ensure your safety and security this season. If you need additional assistance or local resources, do not hesitate to contact our office at (843) 225-5080.
References
https://www.tuw.org/warming-
https://disabilityrightsnc.