Shelter From the Snow | Video

Alex Hagan | 11/2/2012

The shortage of affordable housing in Bismarck has led to a rise in homelessness. Families are facing a serious threat if they can`t find a place to stay before the cold kicks in for good. The United Way is coordinating shelters for people who don`t have a place to live. Churches will provide temporary shelter for up to 35 people each night on a weekly rotation.

United Way employees say it is important to ensure families have a warm and safe place.

"We know that there`s an increase in the number of Bismarck and Mandan public school children that are homeless so we do expect an increase and again we do hope that our shelters don`t have to reach capacity, but we`ll have the plan in place in case," said Community Impact Coordinator Kendre Israel.

MSA United Way is looking for businesses and community groups to help in the effort. For more information, call United Way at 701-255-3601.

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