How does Canton's Dueber Elementary warming center operate without a budget?

The warming center at Dueber Elementary operates through a community effort, relying on donations from local churches, businesses, and individuals, with Mayor Sherer personally coordinating many aspects.

What role does Mayor Sherer play in Canton's homeless shelter initiative?

Mayor Sherer actively secures locations like Dueber Elementary, arranges for security, coordinates the collection and cleaning of blankets, and helps distribute donated food to the homeless.

Why is Dueber Elementary serving as an overflow shelter in Canton?

Dueber Elementary is an emergency overflow shelter because the city's primary shelter, St. Paul AME Church, has insufficient capacity to meet the demand during the persistent cold spell.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Mayor's Zero-Budget Shelter Keeps Homeless Warm

Mayor's Zero-Budget Shelter Keeps Homeless Warm

28 Jan

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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.

Mayor's Zero-Budget Shelter Keeps Homeless Warm

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.