The Open Shelter serves an average 200 people every day and this year the need is even greater.

"Our meals program is serving 98 percent more people, more meals, this year than it did last year," said the shelter's director Kent Beittel. "We now have people who are guests who used to be donors, who used to be volunteers."

The Open Shelter received a rare donation - a lunch time pizza party for clients and workers.

Dough Boys pizza donated about 40 pies.

Beittel said the shelter is feeling the pinch financially while trying to keep up with the increasing need.

That's why today's donation was such a gift for the shelter.

The Community Kitchen on South Ohio Avenue, said they are in need of warm clothing and hygiene items.

They are also giving away more free bus passes to help people get to job interviews or doctor's appointments

And the Faith Mission on East Long Street said it has extra beds, which are expected to be filled through March.

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