Editorial: Temps fall and High Rock Church rises to help

The Associated Press gives guidance to journalists including a suggestion in December 2020 that using the phrase “the homeless” is no longer accepted.

Instead, writers should use phrases like “people without housing” or “people without homes.”

How do words change how we treat neighbors without homes?

Words can help —when we spread the word about urgent needs.

Unfortunately, our staff learned of this too late.

When temps fall, High Rock Church often rises to help neighbors without homes.

This weekend, our community was met with below-freezing temperatures, and many wanted to remain in the warm comfort of their homes. What about those without a home?

Each time temperatures drop, High Rock Church launches into a state of emergency. With the support of other local churches and nonprofits, High Rock Church opens its church building to serve as a warm shelter during extreme weather occasions.

This weekend, the church, located at 135 Lowes Blvd, Lexington, opened its doors of the church for coffee, water and snacks. Also offered were sofas, cots and blankets.

A pressing message went out from the Salvation Army shortly before the urgency. It was too late for publishing in Davidson Local.

“Due to the freezing temperatures expected tonight of 19 degrees, High Rock Church will be opening their doors tonight at 6 p.m. through 9 a.m. Saturday morning. Dinner and breakfast will be provided. Transportation is available if needed for any individuals to and from the church. Contact Terri Clawson with Love Token for route locations or request for pick up https://www.facebook.com/LoveTokenGroup,” wrote a representative from the Salvation Army.

Thanks to all who took the time to volunteer this cold weekend. Let’s remember our neighbors before the next emergency. We are lifting up this need a little too late but it will come along again. Just remember that High Rock Church rises above on every occasion and could use your help keeping others warm.

We will keep a watchful eye on the chilly weather, we hope you do the same.