Newswise — As temperatures are dipping colder across much of the United States, what happens to the homeless?

On Maryland's Eastern Shore, the Community Emergency Shelter Project, coordinated by Brenda Jorden of Salisbury University’s Social Work Department, partners with 12 area churches to house and feed homeless adult males through March. On average, up to 60 men are assisted each week.

The winter shelter opened at Wesley Temple in Salisbury on Saturday, January 4, and runs there through Friday, January 10. Sites rotate each week until late March.

The project’s roots started in early 2004 when, following the death of several homeless individuals, SU students helped turn a part-time day shelter into an emergency 24-hour shelter. Afterward, they assisted with researching successful homeless programs across the U.S. and designing the CESP service model.

SU’s Social Work Department provides training for CESP volunteers who staff each location. Registered nurse Donna Clark also assists the men with health questions and referrals.

To schedule an interview with Jorden, contact SU’s PR Office at 410-543-6030.