The intense cold has returned to Paraguay, with lows below 10°C. On Monday, the National Emergency Secretariat (SEN) reactivated its temporary shelter for homeless people, located in Bañado Sur, Asunción, next to the barracks of the First Infantry Division.
On the first night of operation, four men stayed overnight at the site. Three other homeless people were approached by SEN teams but chose not to go to the shelter, receiving mattresses and blankets. “There are people who do not want to come, they prefer to stay where they are,” explained José Duarte, a SEN official responsible for the shelter.
The shelter has capacity for 30 beds: 12 for men, 12 for women, and six for mothers with babies. In addition to a bed and warm clothing, it offers breakfast, a morning snack, lunch, dinner, and medical care, according to Duarte.
Citizens who encounter homeless people on days of intense cold can call the National Police at 911, so that SEN teams can offer transportation to the shelter or assistance with mattresses and blankets.