SANFORD, Fla. — As frigid weather sweeps across Central Florida, shelters are ramping up efforts to support those in need of shelter from the cold.

What You Need To Know

  • Officials at Seminole County’s Rescue Outreach Mission, the only shelter in the area, say the facility is reaching capacity due to freezing temperatures

  • Emergency shelters are opening to provide relief, with overflow spaces prepared for additional guests

  • The shelter faces increased expenses from staffing, heating, and food, calling for community donations and support

Seminole County’s Rescue Outreach Mission, the area’s only shelter, is working to deal with a surge in demand as temperatures drop into the 30s and even the 20s with wind chill.

The Rescue Outreach Mission is open 24/7, ensuring there is no cutoff time for individuals seeking refuge. Staff have readied overflow areas to accommodate additional guests.

Executive Director Chris Ham said the shelter has prepared extra beds and flexible spaces to meet the growing need.

“This is one of our overflow rooms,” Ham said. “We’ll bring in singles or families, depending on who shows up tonight. We’ve added eight beds here and can also rearrange our TV room and dining areas to create more space.”

Seminole County Emergency Operations Manager Alan Harris confirmed the county is stepping in to assist the shelter as it nears capacity.

“Some of the clients who stayed at the Rescue Outreach Mission last night will be moved to our emergency shelter tonight and tomorrow night,” Harris said. “Temperatures are expected to dip significantly, and we’re prepared to provide relief.”

Last week, 36 people were transported to the county’s emergency shelter due to the growing demand during this cold season. Ham emphasized the challenges of managing an influx of guests, which increases costs across the board.

“With all these extra bodies here, that means extra staffing, higher heating bills, and more food costs,” Ham explained. “Every one of our expenses goes up, and we always need help.”

Rescue Outreach Mission will provide hot meals and snacks for those seeking shelter. If capacity is exceeded, the county has made arrangements with a local church to serve as an additional overflow site.