South Jersey Gathers To Help Homeless As Temperature Drops

As the temperature begins to drop, Cape May and Cumberland Counties are providing warmth and shelter for the homeless.

In Cape May and Cumberland Counties, Code Blue was declared to provide shelter and food for the homeless. Under Code Blue, the homeless are supposed to be provided with hotel vouchers for a place to stay.

According to a volunteer, there is a desperate need for a homeless shelter especially in times like this. There are people with mental-health issues and people living in the woods. Some volunteers have chipped in to pay to help those homeless people who were unable to get a voucher.

As of now, Cape May County spends $4 millions in federal grants annually on housing vouchers for the homeless. If a homeless shelter is opened, it would take $2 million to operate it.

The county is still providing cots, blankets and other necessities. For those who seek emergency hotel vouchers, they have to go to Social Services to be assessed.

You can help keep the community warm by donating to The SoJO Coat Mobile & Glove Box. We're accepting your gently worn winter coats and accessories to help during this cold season.