Homeless Shelters in Need due to Increase in Homeless Population - KOAM TV 7

Preliminary Reports show a double digit increase in the homeless population in Joplin.@

The Development Director of the Salvation Army says early numbers indicate the count could be up as much as 18 percent.

Members from the Calvary Chapel in Joplin serve more than 75 people at the Salvation Army today. The menu included broccoli casserole, asparagus, french bread and cupcakes.

Volunteers say they see an increase in homeless visitors during the bad weather conditions.

Russ Hibbard volunteers at the center. He says "cold weather typically brings a new crowd in - I mean it's not really many places where they can get warm get a hot cup of coffee and a hot meal as the temperature drops obviously the number increase."

On Saturdays, lunch is served at 1 p.m. It is open to the public and are always looking for volunteers. The shelter is also looking for clothing donations and dairy products.

Other shelters in the Joplin area include:

Salvation Army Shelter for Families
(417)624-4528

Souls Harbor
(417)623-4358

Lafayette House
(417)782-1772

City of Refuge
417-623-4673