'Scarier than facing a hurricane' | People living on the streets prepare for winter storm

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As a winter storm approaches the Charlotte area, homeless residents are struggling to find warmth and shelter, with many local facilities already at capacity.

“It’s terrifying actually and even scarier than facing a hurricane,” Tosha Haney, who is experiencing homelessness, said. She and her partner are among those forced to seek creative solutions for survival, including using hand sanitizer as fuel for small fires in metal containers to generate heat.

“The cold air burns your skin, it’s almost like having hot water thrown on you,” Haney said.

While some shelters are unable to accommodate everyone seeking refuge, several facilities plan to offer lunch and temporary indoor warming spaces over the coming days.

Haney expressed concern about the growing homeless population in the area. “I don’t see the problem going away, it’s growing expeditiously,” she said.

Local organizations accepting donations to help those in need include the Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte and Roof Above.