Indianapolis, Indiana – The upcoming period is undeniably the best period of the year. Halloween, the unofficial start of the holiday season, is behind us as we all prepare for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year. The cold winter weather that forces everyone to spend more time indoors, buying gifts, and spending time with our beloved ones is priceless. This is how most of us will spend the upcoming holidays, but there are people who can afford none of the above.
Homelessness in America has been on the rise in recent years, especially since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The same trend is seen in the Indianapolis area, and the winter is the period when a growing number of homeless people seek help from the community and local non-profit organizations.
Teresa Wessel, Executive Director at Horizon House, spoke to WRTV and confirmed that since last year, more and more people seek help from them.
“Right now, our numbers are up over last year. Through October, we’ve seen just shy of 6,000 unique individuals. Last year we saw 6,000 over the course of the year. So, this year we think we’ll be approaching nearly 7,000,” Wessel said.
Horizon House has limited resources, and the growing number of homeless people who seek help is challenging for them. That’s why they are in constant need of support, and Wessel has asked the local community to donate and support Horizon House, especially now when the temperatures continue to drop and they assist many people who do not have a place to stay warm.
Horizon House received 300 brand new coats as a donation from Amazon early last month. However, all of the coats were given to those in need in just a few days. Later in October, Horizon House received yet another load of coats as a donation from a local company, but those coats were also given away shortly after.
As winter approaches and the weather gets colder, coordinators are working longer shifts to check on the homeless every day and make sure they have everything they need. Wessel told WRTV that they remain committed to helping as many people as possible during the winter. However, they are facing difficulties due to limited resources.
Wessel is asking the local community to support the organization. They need and accept donations of all types, including financial, clothing, and food. Those interested in donating clothes are welcome to donate coats, especially bigger coats that will allow people to layer.
To get in touch with Horizon House or donate, please visit this link.
