CENTRAL OHIO -- Central Ohio officials said they are concerned increasing unemployment and foreclosures could put a strain on services for the homeless.
NBC 4's Tom Brockman GOT ANSWERS Monday.
It was estimated there are 759,101 homeless people in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
A little more than half, or 56 percent, find shelter each night, while 44 percent live on the streets – finding a place to sleep on their own, the report said.
Elijah Haymes hasn't had a home to call his own in nearly two decades.
The Air Force veteran said being homeless can be difficult, especially during the frigid winter months.
Fortunately, Haymes is able to stay at a local Faith Mission of Ohio homeless shelter.
"This place is a blessing -- just to get out until you can get somewhere warm," Haymes said.
Haymes isn't alone, either.
Faith Mission's shelters have been packed.
"We're very busy, during the winter months especially. We actually about double our capacity from 250 people to right around 500," Vic Ward said.
Ward is the organization's administrative director.
Ward said he's worried that although temperatures are on the way up, the worst is yet to come.
He said many local people are dealing with unemployment or foreclosure now, and as their safety-net resources run out, many may not have anywhere else to turn.
The good news? If things were to get worse, it likely will be warmer and the beds used during the winter likely will be available for those who need them.
"We've expanded our capacity for winter. We've actually renovated one of our shelters to increase the capacity by 50 beds. That could be an opportunity to continue to use those beds should we see a large influx," Ward said.
Caring for clients, though, depends on available resources.
The organization is in constant need for donated food, cash and personal-care items.
Click here for more information on the shelter or donating.
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