Emergency shelters can be temporary setups for natural disasters or permanent buildings for victims of violence. They offer basic needs and counseling, and may provide additional services like job assistance and childcare.
The term “emergency shelter” can refer to two completely different types of building configurations. Most people associate an emergency shelter with something set up by the Red Cross in the event of a natural disaster or other area crisis. In such a situation, people may be encouraged or forced to leave their homes for a short period of time. An emergency shelter of this type can be set up inside a school gymnasium or similar large building, or it can be set up by setting up large open tents in car parks or parks. The style of emergency shelter depends on the weather conditions of the area, the type of emergency, and the facilities needed to accommodate and treat people.
The other use of the term “emergency shelter” does not refer to a temporary set up. In this case, an emergency shelter is a permanent building set up where abused women or victims of other violent crimes can take refuge. An emergency shelter serving victims of violence usually offers total anonymity. Many don’t require ID, so people can check in anonymously, while others verify personal information but don’t share it with anyone. Such an emergency shelter often offers free services such as job assistance, career counseling, and GED exam preparation help, in an effort to help the people who stay there “get back on their feet.”
An emergency shelter can also be set up to provide assistance to drug addicts, runaway teenagers and displaced persons who have lost their homes in an emergency evacuation. Homelessness is not considered an emergency situation and people who live permanently on the streets can seek assistance in specialized shelters.
Both types of emergency shelter share some common characteristics. Basic food and shelter are provided in both and counselors are often on the premises to help people deal with their current situation. If children are involved, there is often a teacher or other type of child-focused professional. Childcare and primary health services are also common, with the help of volunteers or through assigned professionals.
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