Wichita’s Homeless Outreach Team Urges Homeless to Find Shelter During Life-Threatening Cold

Wichita's Homeless Outreach Team Urges Homeless to Find Shelter During Life-Threatening Cold

As temperatures continue to plummet, staying outdoors becomes increasingly life-threatening. For many individuals experiencing homelessness in Wichita, finding refuge from the cold is not just a preference but a matter of survival.

The Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T.) has stepped up to tackle this crisis, with their primary mission being to help unhoused individuals find shelter. However, this seemingly straightforward task often reveals itself to be far more complex.

The Urgency of Winter Outreach

The H.O.T. Team, led by Officer Nate Schweithale, faces a daunting challenge as they race against time to protect vulnerable populations from the harsh elements. During the day, sub-20-degree temperatures feel bitterly cold, but when the sun sets, the situation becomes even more perilous.

“Many people lack adequate protection against the cold,” explains Officer Schweithale. “Some have only a tent or, worse, no shelter at all. This can be extremely dangerous.”

In preparation for extreme cold spells, the team actively visits known campsites, checking in with regulars and responding to new calls. Their mission is simple but challenging: to convince people to seek the safety of shelters.

Barriers to Seeking Shelter

Despite the dangers of staying outdoors, many individuals resist leaving their campsites. Officer Schweithale emphasizes the importance of understanding these barriers.

“If someone chooses not to go to a shelter, we ask, ‘Why?’ We need to address those obstacles to ensure their safety,” he says.

Some of the most significant barriers include:

  • Limited Storage: Emergency shelters allow only two bags of possessions per person, forcing individuals to abandon much of their belongings.
  • Separation from Pets: Many shelters cannot accommodate pets, making it difficult for individuals to leave their loyal companions behind.
  • Loss of Belongings: Leaving campsites exposes personal items to theft or removal by authorities.
  • Housing Challenges: Even with housing vouchers, securing permanent accommodations is difficult without a stable income, reliable transportation, or a permanent address.

Officer Schweithale adds, “We aim to work with individuals to downsize and connect them with housing vouchers. These can eventually help them secure their own place where they can safely store their belongings.”

The Risks of Staying Outdoors

For those who remain outside, the risks are dire. One individual shared his harrowing experience of frostbite, which left him unable to perform basic tasks.

“The frostbite has made his hands numb. He struggles to go to the bathroom without urinating on himself,” recounts Officer Schweithale. This is just one example of the severe physical toll that exposure to freezing temperatures can take.

Providing Help in Critical Moments

The H.O.T. Team continuously encourages individuals to prioritize their safety and seek shelter. While the team offers assistance and resources, they often find themselves limited to providing contact numbers or transportation.

“All of us have the privilege of going home to warmth, but these individuals are out here every day, navigating resources in conditions that make it nearly impossible,” says Officer Schweithale.

The team urges anyone in need to call 911, as all officers—not just the H.O.T. Team—are equipped to provide transportation to shelters.

Challenges and Solutions for the Homeless in Winter

ChallengeExplanationProposed Solution
Limited storage space in sheltersShelters restrict belongings to two bags per person.Offer storage solutions or connect individuals to housing vouchers.
Inability to bring petsMost shelters do not accommodate pets.Explore pet-friendly shelter options or temporary foster programs.
Risk of theft or removal of belongingsLeaving campsites leaves possessions vulnerable.Provide secure storage options at shelters or campsites.
Difficulty securing permanent housingLack of income, transportation, or address hinders renting opportunities.Assist with job placement, transportation services, and long-term housing programs.

As Wichita’s temperatures drop, the challenges faced by the homeless population become life-threatening. The Homeless Outreach Team plays a critical role in mitigating these dangers, offering shelter and support to those in need.

While significant barriers remain, the team’s dedication underscores the importance of community support and understanding in addressing homelessness during the harsh winter months.

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