Home»Community Home»Community Reno»Tent City remains in use, even as temperatures fall
Tent City remains in use, even as temperatures fall
Page Last Updated: Thursday December 10, 2009 11:13am PST
A man walks through tent city in Reno Wednesday. |
Dozens of homeless people remain outside as the overnight temperatures plunge below zero, but the people who run the nearby homeless shelter say they could come inside.
"It's truly a choice," said Paul Parent, house manager for the Reno-Sparks Gospel Mission. He said many homeless people violate the rules by drinking alcohol or taking drugs, and cannot be allowed inside for the safety of others.
The City of Reno partners with local agencies to run and maintain several homeless shelters for men, women and families. The men's shelter and overflow shelter can sleep more than 250 people. The women's shelter can sleep 50 people. A family shelter is always full, but no family is turned away. Instead, they are given vouchers for downtown motels.
Staff members have begun patrolling Tent City during the night, putting out extra blankets for people who need them. And they are always looking for more donations of blankets, hats, jackets, gloves and sleeping bags. If you can help, call (775) 323-0386 or (775) 323-9485.
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Home»Community Home»Community Reno»Tent City remains in use, even as temperatures fall
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December 10, 2009 9:43am PST
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This account of the homeless in Reno lacks depth and understanding, portraying that there is sufficient room in the shelters if they were not alcohol and drug users. Encouraging an attitude the homeless are there because they want to be so why should someone help by donating anything. Every Sunday regardless of the weather, Bridge to Life Church ministers and feeds the homeless at Galetti Park 7-9 am. One on one contact with suffering, depression, and hopelessness these men, women and children live everyday provides a deeper understanding why many choose to stay away from shelters and government help preferring anonymity and church assistance. Do not bring your cameras, just come and experience that is journalism.