With the winter season upon us, there has been an increase in our area's homeless seeking shelter from the cold weather. Some local facilities are experiencing over-crowding, and are barely able to provide basic supplies to those in need.

The Valley House Homeless Shelter has been in operation since 1994, providing assistance to displaced men, women and children in the Magic Valley. The next three months are particularly rough on the homeless due to Idaho's harsh winter temperatures.

The shelter could use help in collecting some basic supplies to distribute to those who currently call 507 Addison Avenue West their home.

"Blankets, hygiene products and coats are the big ones," said Audrey Kelley, a worker at the shelter. "It's unbelievable, the need in our community."

I was surprised (and saddened) to learn that adult men and women do not make up the majority of homeless at the Valley House.

"We have 40 children, and 30 adults here," said Kelley. "We also distribute 300-350 food boxes a month."

If you would like more information on helping our area's homeless population, please contact The Valley House Homeless Shelter at 208-734-7736.

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