Last Tuesday afternoon, the snowflakes began to fall. By early evening, Central Georgia was blanketed in a rare and magical sight—snow. For the first time in nearly a decade, we watched our familiar surroundings transform into a winter wonderland. As night fell, the untouched snow glistened under streetlights, casting an almost otherworldly glow across the landscape. There’s something peaceful and serene about fresh snow at night, a quiet stillness that invites you to pause and simply take it all in.

By the next morning, my social media feed was overflowing with joy. Pictures of kids experiencing snow for the first time filled my timeline, along with proud parents sharing snapshots of their snowmen creations. Behind my house, the large hill quickly became a hotspot for sledding. Bundled-up kids and their laughter filled the air as they raced down the slope, some more gracefully than others! Watching their excitement reminded me of the simple joys that snow days bring—a temporary escape from the routines of daily life.

But while snow can bring fun and beauty, it also carries harsh realities for those without the shelter and safety of a warm home.

I couldn’t help but think back to Christmas a few years ago when two homeless men tragically died during a bitterly cold spell. It was a devastating reminder of just how dangerous extreme weather can be for the most vulnerable in our community. That tragedy spurred action. Though Lester Miller was still mayor-elect at the time, he quickly stepped in to help establish the Brookdale Warming Center, ensuring no one else would have to face such a heartbreaking fate.

What began as a temporary solution has since grown into something extraordinary. The Brookdale Resource Center now offers a comprehensive 90-day program that provides not just food and shelter but also personalized support to help individuals and families transition into independent housing. Since its launch, the center has served nearly 4,000 people—including 949 children. Each number represents a life changed, a family stabilized, and a future reclaimed.

This past week, as snow blanketed our region, Brookdale once again became a lifeline. Around 60 people—fathers, mothers, and children—found refuge there during the freezing temperatures. For them, this was more than just shelter; it was survival. These are our neighbors, right here in Central Georgia.

Sadly, the challenges they face are part of a much larger, growing crisis. Homelessness in the United States increased by 18.1% in 2024, and family homelessness skyrocketed by a staggering 40%. The reasons are complex, but the reality is stark. Inflation has driven up the cost of food, housing, and transportation by 40%, far outpacing wage growth for most families. As COVID-era assistance ended, many families fell back into poverty, and the compounding effects of these economic pressures have pushed more people than ever to the brink of homelessness.

For many of us, this past week’s snowfall was a welcome break—a chance to enjoy the beauty of winter and create new memories with loved ones. But for others, it was a fight for survival.

I’m incredibly grateful for the work of the Brookdale Resource Center and those who support it. Their efforts remind us that compassion and action can turn crises into hope. When you give to United Way of Central Georgia, you’re not just funding programs—you’re saving lives. You’re helping parents provide stability for their children. You’re making sure no one is left out in the cold.

The snow may have melted, but the need remains. I hope you’ll join us in supporting this critical work. Together, we can build a community where everyone has the chance to find warmth, safety, and hope—even on the coldest nights.