WAUKESHA, Wis. — Shelters are preparing for those in need as the state drops to dangerously cold temperatures.
In Waukesha County, a pipe burst at one emergency overflow shelter caused its opening to be postponed in December. It just opened on Thursday, Jan. 16.
President of the Housing Action Coalition, Brad Haas, said he understands the need for extra shelter during this arctic cold. This time last year, the facility served a capacity of 38 people. After just days of reopening late this month, Haas is making it clear that there's more space available.
“One of our missions in the Housing Action Coalition is that that we don't lose any citizens to inclement weather,” said Haas. “We're really hopeful that with the shelter, the overflow shelter being open, that everybody at least has the option for shelter.”
Haas gave credit to several agencies for making that possible, including Hebron Housing Services, The Salvation Army and Family Promise. Haas said these groups understood the need to have this option available for people.
“The only time people come here is when those two agencies are at capacity,” said Haas. “We're very hopeful that as we try to address the homelessness problem and watch the county, that the need for this building will become less and less.”
Haas said about 15 to 30 volunteers step up each week with transportation, preparing meals and monitoring the shelter during the day and overnight.
“It’s heartening and humbling to see how many volunteers will reach out to this community and really help anybody in need,” he said.
Haas said being able to see and help those battling through the toughest times of their lives, puts things into perspective for his live life.
“Dr. Brian White once said that any time somebody allows you to participate in a meaningful manner in their life, it's a gift,” said Haas. “I think we take that philosophy forward and, you know, I think our guests sometimes learn things from us, but we also learn things from our guests.”
Haas has worked with the shelter for six months. He plans to serve more with the long-term goal of combatting the homelessness crisis in Waukesha County.
