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Winter Night Watch wraps up its 20th season

By Katie Knapp

Omaha, NE – The Salvation Army's Winter Night Watch program served more than 16,000 meals this season to Omaha's homeless and near homeless. The Winter Night Watch program ended February 29th. Volunteers spend five nights a week in downtown Omaha, providing meals, assistance, blankets and winter clothes.

Winter Night Watch Coordinator J.J. Kuzma says the program began in 1988 as a way to help homeless men living under bridges in downtown Omaha. This year, more individuals than families needed assistance. He says an average of 300 meals a night were served between December first and February 29th. Volunteers also distributed 830 blankets and 555 winter coats, as well as hats, scarves, gloves, and socks.

Kuzma says the need is growing every year. People wanting to volunteer or make a donation should contact the Salvation Army.