SAN ANTONIO – When the weather forecast predicts freezing weather, the staff at San Antonio's Haven for Hope know they're about to get busier than normal.
"There's definitely an increased need for services, especially clothing such as coats, scarves and hats," said Evita Mendiola, of Haven for Hope.
She said there is a definite connection between the population growth at the facility and the cold weather.
"As soon as we get news that the temperature is going to start to dip, we get busy addressing the people's needs," she said.
In addition to helping those who show up at the downtown facility, they also actively go out offering help to the homeless.
"Our outreach staff goes to bridges or near wherever people are sleeping outside," Mendiola said.
"We encourage them to come in and get a meal and get services to get them back on their feet," she said.
Volunteers, Mendiola said, are what makes their operation a success.