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Mayor's Zero-Budget Shelter Keeps Homeless Warm
28 Jan
Summary
- Canton's emergency warming center operates without a budget.
- Mayor Sherer personally oversees operations and supplies.
- Community donations and volunteer efforts sustain the shelter.
During a severe cold spell, Canton is operating an emergency overflow warming center at the former Dueber Elementary School. This city-run operation, though lacking a formal staffing chart, provides nightly shelter for approximately two dozen homeless individuals. The center is a testament to community collaboration, with local churches, businesses, and social service agencies contributing to its operation.
Mayor William V. Sherer II is instrumental in the shelter's success. He secured the use of the Dueber Elementary building and has been actively involved in its daily functioning, including collecting and laundering blankets and distributing donated food. His commitment stems from a desire to ensure no one is left unsheltered.
St. Paul AME Church serves as the city's primary, grant-funded shelter, but Dueber Elementary has become essential due to high demand. This temporary site, open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., relies entirely on donations and volunteer support, highlighting a broad community effort to address the needs of the homeless population during harsh winter conditions.
