The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates that 1,070 people were homeless in Delaware in 2016. Less than 5 percent of those considered homeless – about 51 people – were completely without shelter that year, the agency found.
Unfortunately, those struggling with alcohol or drugs are often those who need shelter the most. Connections to family have long been broken, and without a place to go, cars, underpasses and makeshift cardboard tents become home. Yet in sub-freezing temperatures, that’s simply not enough.
For those struggling with the elements in New Castle County, Brandywine Counseling and Community Services operates a Drop-In Center on Lancaster Avenue in Wilmington during the morning hours.
There, people looking for some warmth can grab a bite to eat, take a hot shower and get some clean clothes. The center stocks toiletries, condoms and other necessities like socks and scarves, while also offering direct access to drug treatment for those suffering from a substance use disorder.
And even for those not ready to get treatment, a warm seat and a welcome hand await.
“We’re seeing about a 20 percent increase in activity,” said Lynn Fahey, Brandywine Counseling’s CEO. “They’re trying to get people hats, gloves, socks, sleeping bags, anything they can.”
Read more on DelawareOnline.