When the temperature drops, area shelters and resource centers see a dramatic jump in the number of homeless and needy people looking for help as many struggle to get out of the cold.

"People can be outside during the spring, summer and fall, but in the winter they have to come in," Shepherd's Table Executive Director Jacki Coyle said.

Coyle added that on average in the warmer months the staff serves between 90 and 140 meals every night. In the winter, the number increases to around 200.

It's the same story at A Wider Circle, where they provide everything from food to furniture for those who need it.

"We say 'no' to nobody," said Mark Bergel, founder and executive director of the organization.

On some days they get upwards of 500 calls from people looking for help. Many times when the phone rings, it is mothers with "three or four kids sleeping on the floor, living in uncomfortable conditions," Bergel explained.

It's not only the cold, but the holiday season that adds to the demands that the shelters see.  

"During the holidays the urgency gets higher, but the need is always there," Bergel emphasized.

As both Bergel and Coyle know, though people are willing to give during the holidays, at times the demand outpaces what they have on their shelves. So they and other shelter heads are reminding the public not to forget their neighbors in need during this time.

"Always need food. Meat products, fresh vegetables…" Coyle said. "Because we aren't getting from the farmers' markets (during this season) there is less — more donations from public are welcomed."

Over at Interfaith Works the donation list is long, but with some similar things.

"Hats, clothes, coats, plastic ponchos, McDonald's gift cards, pillows, twin sheets, Target gift card," Administrative Assistant Anastasia Stewart said . 

Though the winter has just officially started, Stewart emphasized that there is "especially" a need for coats. The three shelters that Interfaith Works refers the homeless to have been packed on the frigid nights that have recently hit the area. And with much more winter ahead Stewart said the shelters and other resource centers are simply bracing for what might come.

"Yeah, we are always looking for volunteers too," Stewart added.

If you would like to help out, below are additional items that the staff at the shelters and resource centers said are needed most.

Shepherd's Table:  Serves dinner, provides eye services, clothing, crisis intervention and social services.

Socks, underwear (new)
Toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, etc.)
Cold weather clothing (scarves, hats, gloves, coats)
Blankets
Financial Donations always welcomed.
Phone: (301) 585-6463

A Wider Circle: Focuses on helping individuals and families transitioning from homelessness into homes; also provides educational services and more.

Furniture (Bed, dresser, living room set, etc)
Sheets, Blankets, Towels, etc.
Kitchen Items: Pots, Utensils, etc.
Food (non-perishable, healthy items)
Cold weather clothing (scarves, hats, gloves, coats)
Phone: (301) 608-3504

Interfaith Works: Refers homeless to area shelters, assists with transitional housing, provides advocacy and emergency, and educational and other services.

Wallets
Clothes (gently used)
Toys
Underwear (new)
Clothing and other items for expectant mothers
Giant gift cards
Volunteers are always welcomed.  
Contact: (301) 762-8682