COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – As below seasonal temperatures settle across Colorado Springs and southern Colorado, Springs Rescue Mission says it is expanding shelter access to protect people experiencing homelessness during what staff describe as potentially life-threatening conditions.
“When the temperatures drop in Colorado Springs, southern Colorado, it really can be life or death for individuals who are living out on the street,” Travis Williams, CEO of Springs Rescue Mission, said. “And so one of the things that we do our best to provide is the opportunity for those who are really looking for shelter, for them to find shelter that is warm, safe, and dry, and to give them an option to get out of the elements. That is really important, and again, it can be life saving.”
Williams said the organization monitors weather conditions daily and activates severe weather protocols when temperatures stay at or below 19 degrees for extended periods. During those times, the mission expands its shelter capacity from about 450 people to more than 600…