Donations needed for overnight homeless shelter in Garland ahead of cold front this week

In Garland, a temporary overnight shelter for homeless North Texans has put out a call for donations and volunteers ahead of a cold front expected to hit the region this week.

The Garland Overnight Warming Station (GLOWS) expects to open for more than one night this week, the group said on Facebook.

In preparation, the volunteer-run outfit has called for volunteers to help cover shifts, and has asked anyone who is able to donate blankets, meals, snacks and water.

“To be most efficient, we need every spot covered on every shift, especially if we have a large number of guests,” the GLOWS post said. “Please help us in this endeavor. It will be critical and life-saving to get our folks on the street into shelter with the forecasted temperatures.”

This week, the group will host homeless people in the gym of the Salvation Army at 451 W. Ave D.

Forecasters expect the “coldest air of the season” to hit the region this week.

Founded in 2015, the volunteer-led coalition of nonprofits, faith-based groups and other organizations coordinate to help homeless residents find somewhere to stay during severe weather.

According to GLOWS, there are an estimated 150 individuals and 800 families in Garland who experience homelessness. The weather in Garland can drop below freezing dozens of night each year.

GLOWS also opened its doors one night last month when temperatures dropped below freezing.