In the over 20 years Dana Jones has worked to serve the unhoused community in Bloomington, he has seen the consequences for those out in the cold during the winter months.
That’s why the “low barrier” aspect of the Wheeler Mission is important to him as director of the Center for Wheeler Men in Bloomington. It means those who seek shelter during the winter months do not need to provide any information or even prove sobriety to receive a bed, a hot meal or other resources.
“We do not want a barrier rise of any way preventing a person from getting shelter from the cold and potential death,” Jones said. “We would hate to see anyone experience death in this situation over the next few days.”
Read more: City prepares shelter resources as winter storm approaches
Wheeler Mission has 92 beds available in the emergency shelter for men and 40 beds available for women. Regular shelter beds in both the men’s and women’s center are slightly over half full, according to Jones.
The shelter also provides individuals with three meals a day, seven days a week, throughout the year.
“It's open regardless of the weather. I have an onsite staff who will be preparing those meals even during this winter blast,” Jones said. “So, we are prepared for that. We have plenty of food and hospitality available.”
The center also has a day room warming shelter that is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Day room guests have access to warm drinks, phones, Wi-Fi, and free clothing while stocks last.
The Wheeler Mission needs donations for warm winter wear, especially coats. Those who can volunteer this weekend to help provide meals to the guests and other on-site tasks are also welcomed.
Read more: Potential winter storm could cause flash freeze, difficulty traveling
Those interested can find more information at wheelermission.org.
National Weather Service forecasters say a flash freeze is likely Thursday night with temperatures dropping more than 30 degrees during the transition from rain to snow.
Weather status by county in the WFIU/WTIU broadcast area as well as delays and closings can be found here.
