WUFT News News and Public Media for North Central Florida from the University of Florida in Gainesville
With temperatures dropping to freezing levels this weekend, the St. Francis House in Gainesville has opened its doors to more people needing emergency shelter. Executive Director Kent Vann says when the temperature drops below 45 degrees they are allowed to set up accommodations for more people to spend the night.
[audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/VANN4.mp3]He says they have the resources to cover the larger crowd right now, but there is always a demand for blankets and personal hygiene products.
[audio:http://www.wuft.org/news/files/2011/11/VANN2.mp3]Normally, the shelter houses 35 residents, but last night 16 additional people sought shelter at St. Francis House. Vann says the crowd will likely continue to grow with more consecutive cold nights.
