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Dinah Kissiedu

Welcome To The January Newsletter

Updated: Mar 13



Happy New Year, Its 2024! 

 

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, it's with great joy and anticipation that I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you.

 

The dawn of a new year brings with it a sense of hope, renewal, and the opportunity for fresh starts. As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the past year, let's carry the lessons forward and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.

 

In the coming year, Help Inn Folk is committed to housing more people, securing more contracts, and collaborating with organization who align with our mission. We're excited about the journey ahead and the chance to grow together. Your support and engagement have been instrumental in our success, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. May this New Year bring you moments of joy, new adventures, and the strength to overcome any hurdles that may come your way. Let's strive for positivity, kindness, and resilience as we navigate the chapters yet to be written.

 

Thank you for being an integral part of our Help Inn Folk. We're grateful for the trust you've placed in us, and we're excited about the opportunities that the future holds.


 

Cold Weather Safety Tips. 


Stay Hydrated:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, even in cold weather, to stay hydrated.

  • Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Know the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite:

  • Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of hypothermia (shivering, confusion, slurred speech) and frostbite (numbness, tingling, pale or hardened skin). Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone else shows signs of these cold-related illnesses.

  1. Limit Outdoor Exposure:

  • Minimize the time spent outdoors in extremely cold conditions. Plan outdoor activities during the warmer parts of the day and take breaks indoors to warm up.

  1. Prepare Your Home:

  • Ensure your home is adequately insulated to retain heat.

  • Keep heating equipment well-maintained and use space heaters with caution to prevent fire hazards.

  • Have an emergency supply of food, water, and essential supplies in case of power outages.

  1. Check on Vulnerable Individuals:

  • Regularly check on elderly family members, neighbors, or others who may be more susceptible to the cold.

  • Ensure they have proper heating and are equipped to handle cold weather conditions.  

Remember, cold weather safety involves a combination of preparation, awareness, and proactive measures. By staying informed, dressing appropriately, and taking precautions, individuals can minimize the risks associated with cold temperatures. Anticipation that I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you.

 

The dawn of a new year brings with it a sense of hope, renewal, and the opportunity for fresh starts. As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the past year, let's carry the lessons forward and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.

 

In the coming year, Help Inn Folk is committed to housing more people, securing more contracts, and collaborating with organization who align with our mission. We're excited about the journey ahead and the chance to grow together. Your support and engagement have been instrumental in our success, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. May this New Year bring you moments of joy, new adventures, and the strength to overcome any hurdles that may come your way. Let's strive for positivity, kindness, and resilience as we navigate the chapters yet to be written.

 

Thank you for being an integral part of our Help Inn Folk. We're grateful for the trust you've placed in us, and we're excited about the opportunities that the future holds.




 

GaRRS

Georgia Radio Reading Service 

I'm happy to announce that I'm a presenter for Georgia Radio Reading Service (GaRRS) . GaRRS helps to improve the quality of life for every Georgian who is blind, visually impaired, or has difficulty with the printed word.

GaRRS listeners also include senior citizens who have trouble reading and people with physical or mental impairments that make handling printed material difficult.

The programming is broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and accessed by using an Amazon Alexa Dot, special radio, through our online webstream, by telephone, or by using a mobile app. 


 

Its cold season, so if like me, you have had an episode of winter cold, then try these natural remedies, which can be found in the convenience of your kitchen; 

Honey Lemon and Ginger

Turmeric tea, - for a sore throat try teaspoon of turmeric and a table spoon of honey mix together and this will help numb the pain as turmeric is a natural antiseptic. 

Also I luv to have a shot of apple cider vinegar with a glass of tepid water first thing in the morning.

(Always check with a medical professional on your condition. Disclosure; I'm not a doctor.)





Help Inn Folk volunteered at New Life Baptist Church. The church opened up their doors to those that are sleeping on the streets and provided a Warming centre, were they would have access to a hot meal , a place to sleep and access to resources.

 

Whilst volunteering , I encountered a young couple with a three-month-old baby, who were unable to secure an apartment. One lady shared her heartbreaking experience of losing everything after a burglary, shortly after the landlord evicted her , while a young man in his early 20s, unemployed, hesitated to return home to his parents . A volunteer, struggling to secure housing due to application rejections based on credit and background, was also among them. I provided them with our Help Inn Folk telephone number to assist in transitioning from the shelter to a stable place to stay.


 

Warming Shelters 

Warming shelters for the homeless play a crucial role in addressing the needs and challenges faced by individuals without permanent shelter during cold weather. Here are several reasons highlighting the importance of warming shelters:

 

Protection from Harsh Weather Conditions: Warming shelters provide a safe and warm environment for homeless individuals during cold temperatures, protecting them from the dangers of extreme weather conditions, such as frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related illnesses.

 

Life-Saving Support: Exposure to severe cold can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations like the homeless. Warming shelters offer a lifeline by providing a temporary refuge, reducing the risk of cold-related injuries and fatalities. 

Health and Well-being: Access to warming shelters helps prevent a range of health issues associated with prolonged exposure to cold weather. By providing a warm space, individuals can avoid the negative health impacts that cold temperatures can have on their physical and mental well-being.

 

Community Support: Warming shelters often serve as community hubs, connecting homeless individuals with essential services such as medical care, food, and hygiene facilities. This support can contribute to a sense of community and help individuals access resources they might not have access to otherwise.

 

Dignity and Respect: Warming shelters contribute to maintaining the dignity of homeless individuals by offering them a place where they can find warmth, rest, and basic necessities. This contributes to recognizing the humanity of those experiencing homelessness.

 

Prevention of Homelessness-Related Deaths: In extreme weather conditions, the risk of death due to exposure is heightened. Warming shelters act as a preventive measure, reducing the number of deaths caused by extreme cold among the homeless population. 

Gateway to Support Services: Warming shelters serve as entry points to connect homeless individuals with support services, such as housing assistance, mental health counseling, and employment resources. This helps address the root causes of homelessness and facilitates pathways to stability. 

Emergency Response: Warming shelters are often activated as part of emergency response plans during severe weather events. They provide a rapid and flexible solution to ensure the safety of homeless individuals when weather conditions become hazardous. 

In summary, warming shelters are essential components of efforts to address the immediate needs and well-being of homeless individuals during cold weather, while also serving as a gateway to broader support and assistance. Providing a warm and secure space can make a significant difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. 

Here are a list of warming shelters:

 592 Flat Shoals Rd, Decatur, GA 30034


  • 921 Howell Mill Road

  • 10 beds available for women and children on a first come, first served basis when temperatures are below 35 degrees.

  • Intake is between 3 and 5 p.m. Clients will be asked to leave by 9 a.m. pending temperature.

  • Clients will participate in a brief screening and security check upon entry.

  • Some COVID protocols including mandatory masks may be enforced.

  • 165 Ivan Allen Boulevard

  • 10 cold weather beds available for male clients when the temperatures are below 35 degrees overnight.

  • Intake begins at 8 p.m.

  • 275 Pryor Street SW

  • Open to individuals experiencing homelessness at 40 degrees or lower.

  • 35 single men; 5 single women; 2 families consisting of 3 individuals in each family.

  • Agencies looking for an update on availability can call 404-215-6600.

  • 1559 Johnson Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

  • 10 beds to serve as warming beds for young people ages 18-24 who are overcoming homelessness and escaping trafficking. 

  • Temperatures must be predicted to be below 32 degrees.

  • Intake is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and exit is at 8 a.m. the following day or until temperatures rise above 35 degrees.


 

Wishing you a Joyous New Year! As we step into 2024, we're thrilled to embrace the possibilities of a fresh year filled with good health, peace of mind, and a sense of gratitude. Your support has been invaluable, and we eagerly anticipate sharing upcoming events and news with you in the months ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey!







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