Indianapolis summers bring challenges to Hoosiers experiencing homelessness
It’s normally when Indiana experiences frigid temperatures or inches of snow that people think of the environmental challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. For those living in places not meant for human habitation, there are challenges year-round from frostbite and hypothermia in the winter, to dehydration in the summer. “As we work with our neighbors in the summer, we realize that the sun and heat present a unique set of challenges,” said Teresa Wessel, Executive Director of Horizon House. “Keeping folks hydrated is a real priority. We provide clean and cool water in our Service Center and on Street Outreach. We also provide sunscreen and bug spray. We want to help prevent heatstroke, sunburns, and diseases caused by summer insects, like Zika virus and Lyme disease.”
Horizon House provides a comprehensive service center, street outreach, and permanent supportive housing. Since the weather has warmed up, the service center is still serving up to 440 individuals per week. In addition to case management services, neighbors experiencing homelessness can receive hygiene products and take a shower. Deodorant is so appreciated during the peak of summer. Neighbors can also get weather-appropriate clothing, like shorts and short-sleeved shirts.
Last week, one neighbor shared, “Horizon House helped me to find a home. I get to move in today. But, they helped me up until this day with hygiene, food, laundry, showers, and clothing. I am so thankful for Horizon House.”
Horizon House is here to help people get housed and to keep them well and encourage them until they do. Want to help? You can go to the Amazon Wish List and provide help today by clicking here.