“It was November, so it was cold out,” says Scott Hall remembering the weeks he spent homeless in the woods. “There wasn’t much to eat.”
Hall has numerous disabilities including cerebral palsy and autism. His physical and mental challenges make it hard to provide for himself at times. Right now he is getting help at the Open Door Ministry in Midland.
Open Door Ministry Board President James McDaniel says the ministry is seeing more and more people in need.
“Need is up. That’s for sure,” says McDaniel. “We’ve got more people coming, and they’re staying longer.”
Residents are staying longer at the shelter, because it is now harder to find work. The ministry’s soup kitchen is also seeing increased need. Last year it served about 50 people per day over the summer. This year it isn’t uncommon to see 80 people in need come for food. The ministry’s soup kitchen serves lunch Monday through Saturday.
The increase in demand comes as donations slowly decrease. Board members say the community has always been generous and supportive, but they would like to put the word out, donations of food, clothing, or money are needed.
Residents served, like Scott Hall, say the ministry gives them hope.
