Shelter From the Storm

When harsh weather hits, it’s more than just an inconvenience for San Diego’s homeless. It’s a health and safety concern. The Alpha Project offers dry clothes, blankets, umbrellas, and trash bags to those who can’t or won’t seek shelter. Outreach teams search riverbeds, streets, and bridges to alert people about flash flooding and where they can take shelter.

Printed IssueSubscribe and get 1 year for $18

Every winter, the Regional Task Force on the Homeless conducts a one-day census to count the homeless. On January 23, 2015, they counted more than 8,700 homeless people in San Diego County. More than half spent that night in the shelter system; the rest braved the elements. Donations of trash bags, ponchos, gloves, socks, new or gently used shoes, antibacterial wipes, personal hygiene items, sleeping bags, sheets, and blankets are always helpful. The Alpha Project’s Kyla Winters says, “Every time it rains, people should be thinking about our homeless community.”

Shelter From the Storm