Imagine having to stay outside for hours in freezing temperatures. While that is not ideal, it may help you tolerate this knowing that you can go inside to a warm environment anytime of your choosing. This isn't the case for our homeless friends. In North Carolina, there was a reported number of 58 deaths within the homeless population for the year 2020 (Fowle & Gray, 2021). Unfortunately, there are more unaccounted individuals than you will find in reported data. I want to mention that the data does not reflect the cause of death, but it is important to consider that the bitter and harsh cold can play a factor in causing death.

Each state has its own regulation as to how to help homeless populations. North Carolina is no different. However, there are better ways we can help our homeless friends than what is already established. The regulation in North Carolina is called "White Flag Night." According to Gale Melcher, "Activation of White Flag happens when the actual or “feels like” temperature is at least 32 degrees for two or more hours, as well as when the weather forecast or current conditions include a “winter weather event causing freezing precipitation, extended below-freezing temperatures, and/or wind concerns (2025).

What can be done? Regulations can require that public facilities open their buildings for these individuals to stay during these horrendous weather conditions. Public buildings include, but are not limited to: churches, school gymnasiums, and libraries. Of course there are cons to this which must also be addressed. For one, volunteers or workers will need to be overseeing the building while it is open during non-business hours. Two, this option may not include providing food or beverages or other necessities to our friends. 

I want to leave on a positive note and include the pros. First, the volunteer opportunities would be a great way for individuals who need to complete community service hours to do so while helping the community in a dire situation. Second, donating necessities provides another way for individuals to help in these situations. Third, helping others helps our mental health by providing serotonin and dopamine boosts. 

References

Fowle, M. & Gray, F. (2021). 2020 homeless deaths. Homeless Deaths Count.

Gale, M. (2025). White flag in Greensboro: Overnight shelter offered for the homeless tonight. https://triad-city-beat.com/white-flag-overnight-shelter-for-homeless-in-gso-0113/