Sub-zero temperatures are creating exceptionally busy nights at Salvation Army shelters across the region. Ron Begg has volunteered at shelters in the Council Bluffs/Omaha area for years as part of the Winter Night Watch Program.
Begg says he makes the rounds, handing out necessities like socks to those in need, and helping serve some 400 meals a night.
Begg says, “In most cases, it may be the only warm meal they get in a day so it is very helpful to them, I think.” This man, identified only as Roger, was in line for one of those meals. Roger says: “I’m kinda going through a tough time right now but things are getting better. This is what’s kept me alive this winter. Thank God for these people.” He says sometimes all a person needs is a hot meal and warm clothing to give them hope. “They hand out gloves. They hand out socks. They hand out coats. Where would some of these people be without these people?,” Roger asks.
Roger says he recently got a job and is hoping next year he will be able to volunteer for the program, instead of being a recipient. The Winter Night Watch Program makes the rounds five nights a week December through February.