Shelters in Meridian help the Homeless during the Pandemic

Homelessness is a struggle for those affected and with COVID-19 cases rising daily, the homeless face the struggle of trying to stay safe from the virus as well.

Sammie Parker says he has been on the street since the pandemic started. 

“I’ve been laid off my job and that’s why I’ve been homeless, it’s hard for me to get food and I just want everything to be back the way it used to be,” Parker says. 

Parker says he knows about shelters, but is afraid of the virus. He chooses to walk around to different areas of the community to get shelter. 

“I’ve been praying every night. I don’t want anyone to see me like this, I hate it.”

Homeless shelters in Meridian are following all CDC guidelines to make sure their residents do not contract COVID-19. 

Shelter of Hope Salvation Army of Meridian explains residents must be at the shelter before opening and get their temperature taken before entering. All residents have their own room and must wear a mask at all times. 

Similar guidelines are in place at the Frances W. Davidson Memorial Homeless Shelter, including their three meals a day. 

Shelter of Hope Salvation Army Meridian: (601) 286-3016

Frances W. Davidson Memorial Homeless Shelter: (601) 483-4838