Winter weather drives surge in those seeking shelter. Oliver Gospel Mission provides support

One coffee at a time. 

Inside a warm shop on a cold day, a barista bustled to finish drink orders. Tables were filled with patrons looking to escape the frigid weather. But despite being indoors, almost everyone’s thoughts remained on the weather. There was a different appreciation and gratitude for warmth, food and shelter. 

The Roastery coffee shop, two doors down from Oliver Gospel Mission’s homeless shelter, falls under the umbrella of Oliver Gospel. All sales proceeds directly benefit the Mission. 

Freezing temperatures have been pushing more people to seek shelter. Columbia’s homeless services are stepping up, offering emergency housing, warm meals and even a way for the community to help.

During the second wave of cold weather for 2025, Gabbee Bagby, director of Operations of Oliver Gospel Mission, said the shelter plays various roles during the winter months.

“Once the temperature falls below 40, then it’s first come, first serve,” Bagby said. “If there’s room available, and we give them a mat, give them a blanket and we give them a meal. For them, that gives them at least 24 hours of being out of the cold.”

Those looking to help can make a purchase at The Roastery.

“Every cup of coffee is equivalent to one meal for a man, woman or child,” Bagby said. “And then we have bags of coffee that are equivalent to a night of shelter for a man, woman or child.” 

January is the coldest month on average in Columbia. This year, most homeless shelters reached capacity fairly quickly.

The weather isn’t the only cause of full shelters. The number of individuals in South Carolina who experienced homelessness last year was estimated to be 4,593, 540 more than the previous year, according to the national 2024 Annual Homelessness Housing Report.

Both of these reasons call attention to the lack of space in shelters. This is where the city of Columbia’s Emergency Winter Shelter comes in.

Columbia spokesperson Justin Stevens said the overflow shelter steps when private shelters fill up.

And the city’s shelter isn’t a year-round fix.

“It is a temporary shelter that is only active during inclement or cold weather,” opening when temperatures drop below 40 degrees, Stevens said.

The cold is not just a challenge for those seeking shelter. It’s also making the entire community more aware of the struggles faced by those without a warm place to call home.

Caroline Chasser, a student at the University of South Carolina, chose to go to school in the South in hopes to avoid the challenges of inclement weather. 

“Being from Florida, I never thought I would have to deal with cold weather, much less about how people without homes would be affected,” she said.

People feeling compelled can make donations or volunteer at local homeless shelters. 

“We can always use warm socks, gloves, hand warmers, hats, earmuffs, blankets, boots, clothes,” Bagby said.