With temperatures expected to drop into the low 30’s, the Salvation Army is putting “Operation Deep Freeze” into effect. Operation Deep Freeze begins whenever temperatures reach 35 degrees or lower, or goes below 40 degrees with precipitation.

The program gives a couple of hundred homeless people a warm place to sleep. People needing shelter should go to the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House at 1021 North 11^th Avenue, where volunteers and organizers have been busy setting up beds for people to sleep on.

Each person gets a cot and a couple of blankets, but most of the people who take advantage of the program don’t even have that. The program has been in operation for 22 years between the months of November and March. Not only do people get a place to sleep, but a warm shower, dinner, and breakfast the next day.

Organizers are expecting a big turnout this year, especially of families trying to get back on their feet in this tough economy. “I just met a man earlier, and he came in with his whole life in his backpack,” says Salvation Army spokesperson Tamara McElwee. “He goes from shelter to shelter, and he’s been trying to get work. Then we met another family where both parents lost their jobs and were evicted from their home.”

Last year’s Operation Deep Freeze brought in an average of 200 people a night. Donations of coats, blankets and gloves are needed. You can find information on how to donate by clicking here.