Cold Weather Shelter Operations in Zephyrhills
The Church of the Nazarene is meeting the need for cold Weather Shelters
By Susan Slater
As temperatures in Zephyrhills dip to freezing lows, the need for safe, warm spaces becomes necessary for the city’s homeless population. The Church of the Nazarene on 12th Street activates a cold weather shelter when temperatures fall below 40°F or lower. The shelter opens at 6pm and remains available through 10:00 am.
East Pasco Meals on Wheels plays a vital role by delivering food to the church. “I will always be there for Pastor Kendall,” said Beth Aker, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels. People in the community donate bags with knitted hats, gloves, scarves, and hygiene products.
Upon arrival, individuals are welcomed by volunteers. They sign in and are handed towels and wash cloths for a hot shower. They get blankets for their cot and get a hot meal. Pastor Kendall and volunteers strive to make everyone feel safe and respected. Pastor Nick expresses concern for the homeless praying that more people would help their neighbors.
Angela came to the Nazarene church last year. She describes her time at the Nazarene as a place where she felt seen. She has been sober for almost a year. When she had to leave a temporary shelter she was in she got into a rehabilitative program by ‘divine intervention’ after facing no bed when she arrived in Tampa.
After a mix up, she almost had to face the streets sober. Through a series of calls and desperation to stay sober, she ended up with a bus ticket to Jacksonville to attend the same program. She already has a job and apartment through the program.
Regular meal giveaways at Sheppard Park on Sundays from 3:00 -5:00 pm, provide another layer of support. Carlio was a bit quiet as he had a stomachache from not eating for a few days. Fernando adds, “I am sleeping in my car after losing my apartment. But I am waiting for a friend to get word on a job. Then I will head north with him making my way to Rochester, NY for work.”
In speaking with Kathy MacKenzie, who manages the program CHIPZ, Community Homeless Initiatives Program in Zephyrhills, she confirms that economic factors play a major role in the rise of homelessness. She also confirms there are not many resources here. That leaves many hopeless. Increasing rent prices, limited affordable housing, and jobs. She also sees a rise in Senior homelessness and their needs are greater medically, hence the need for a shelter in East Pasco.
CHIPZ program coordinates outreach and connects individuals with services like rent, utilities, health and reunification. She is dedicated to doing what she can with very limited resources. There is talk and hope that Zephyrhills will have a shelter and more resources one day for those most vulnerable who can use a hand up.
