Coachella Valley Rescue Mission “over capacity” amid cold temperatures

The chilly overnight temperatures here in the valley are leading to a surge in demand for homeless people looking for overnight shelter at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission.

The rescue mission’s emergency shelter is designed to house up to 75 people overnight, but Sunday night, Executive Director Darla Burkett says they hosted 105.

“What we do is help people in need, give them food, shelter, clothing, and love,” said Burkett.

Because of the surge, they are planning to open a gym across the street to accommodate more homeless people looking for a place to stay overnight.

Burkett says opening another building will come at additional cost because of the need to hire more staff, along with added heating costs.

The extra room will allow the mission to house upwards of 300 people a night through March.

To support the mission right now, Burkett says monetary donations are a priority, followed by non-perishable food items, blankets and toiletries.

Burkett says there has been an overall increase in demand for service at the resuce mission, since Roy’s Resource Center in Palm Springs was closed in June, 2016.

But, she says the mission is in talks with a “west valley city” which she would not name, to open a new homeless facility to serve 75 people.

The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission is the only emergency homeless shelter between Blythe and San Diego.

They are currently serving 1,050 meals a day.

Click here to learn more about CVRM.