Operation Security Web offers safety for these in want in the course of the Colder Months – CBS Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – As temperatures begin to plummet, Pittsburgh Mercy prepares to shelter the homeless.

The organization’s Operation Safety Net program begins Monday, November 15, at the Smithfield United Church of Christ in downtown Pittsburgh.

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“It’s only there as a safety net for people who you never know what will happen in the cold months,” said Douglas Murry, supervisor of Operation Safety Net.

He says the Smithfield Street shelter will welcome men and women from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. every day.

“We have food that we hand out every night,” Murry said. “If need be, people can do laundry and take a shower. We also have some coats, jackets and warm clothes for them. “

Murry says they have room for 68 people. He believes that more people will need a place to sleep this season after the summer homelessness increased.

“There are people who return to normal everyday life. We think people went in more, stayed with families, surfed on the couch. People are starting to be displaced more and more, ”he said.

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However, Murry says they won’t turn anyone away at night and will try to lead them in the right direction during the day when the shelter is closed.

“We also ask them to meet with us in our office so they can sit down with case managers and field workers and really improve their crisis,” said Murry.

Murry urges the homeless to go downtown for help.

The shelter will be operational until at least March 15th.

Murry says they will be offering weekly COVID-19 vaccines and tests.

They also want to hire more workers and raise funds, especially clean socks and underwear.

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You can find out more here.