Heat, storms making life harsh for Collier County homeless people

The hot, rainy season is here, and homeless shelters in Southwest Florida need your help to care for people who are struggling right now.

With the coming weekend’s temperatures expected to feel like they’re in the triple-digit range, our homeless population could face dehydration, sunburn, even heat exhaustion or stroke. St. Matthew’s House says donations of water bottles, sunscreen, hats and long sleeve shirts are crucial right now, because they will help many homeless people get through the hot temperatures and storms coming in the next several months.

Saint Matthew’s House cares for homeless people in Collier County and says there are already many people coming into the shelter dehydrated or sunburned because it’s difficult for them to find places to stay cool. With more and more people struggling to make ends meet, officials say the homeless population is increasing.

“You know, you’re just down on your luck like me right now,” said Keith Sharp, who uses the resources provided by St. Matthew’s House. “I mean, it’s… this is not what I want to be the rest of my life or that I chose. I mean, I made the choice to do what I did, of course, but I don’t want to stay this way the rest of my life, and St. Matt’s and some of the other organizations are giving people a chance to make that first step.”

St Matthew’s House says it has seen more seniors and mothers with children in need of help. There is currently a waitlist of around 80 to 100 people.

“There’s a lot of homeless people here that are struggling every single day,” Sharp said. “I would say don’t look at them as problem people because 90% of them are not problem people. You have that little bit that are, but most of them are just down the road, you know. COVID[-19] wiped out a bunch of people.”

You can donate to St. Matthew’s House by visiting the organization’s website.