Macon shelters increasing capacity during winter storm

Those without shelter can head to Depaul USA Daybreak, where they will be assigned a warming bed at either the Hello House, Brookdale Resource Center or the Salvation Army.

January 21, 2025

Taylor Gilchrist,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – While officials across Middle Georgia have urged everyone to stay inside during the winer storm, not everyone has that luxury. That’s why shelters across Macon have increased their capacity to account for those in need.

“It is uncommon that we see temperatures that are this low,” said Jake Hall, the Executive Director for the United Way of Central Georgia’s United to End Homelessness initiative. “And we need to make sure that our doors and hearts are open wide.”

Those without shelter can head to Depaul USA Daybreak, where they will be assigned a warming bed at either the Hello House, Brookdale Resource Center or the Salvation Army. Organizations have partnered to provide bus rides to each shelter as the storm has shut down the Macon Transit Authority’s routes.

“We’ve worked together across sector to ensure that there are bus passes in the system for people to get around,” Hall said. “And also, some emergency transport.”

Hall says the three shelters shave all increased the number of warming beds inside. And he says they won’t just be available for overnight stays.

“Our shelters are set so that people are not turned out into a cold environment during the day that’s just as dangerous as a frozen environment at night,” Hall said. “So, the shelters are set to have warming capacity each day during this cold snap.”

Hall says although Macon has seen cold temperatures recently, this storm will be different. He encourages residents to not only educate loved ones on shelters available, but to lend a helping hand in any way possible.

“If you have somebody that you know, friend or family, that’s out in the elements, create space for them,” Hall said. “Additionally, we have created additional shelter beds throughout the system. But if you know someone, go and make sure that they’re okay.”