GASTONIA, N.C. — Martin Ledford is 71 years old. As he gets older, he says he is also growing tired of sleeping in the woods.
"I just hope Gastonia knows what they’re creating because it's not going to be pretty," Ledford told WCNC Charlotte's Tradesha Woodard. "When they close the doors it’s going to be chaos in the city."
Ledford said his area could soon become a home for dozens more as the shelter prepares to shut its doors for good.
Officials with the Salvation Army said a study revealed the emergency shelter is not the most cost-effective and transformative way to serve those experiencing temporary homelessness.
They’re now closing the Gastonia and Lincoln County locations with hopes of transitioning to a program that targets homelessness prevention through things like case management and rapid rehousing.
Pastor Dwayne Burks said he’s hoping the new plan will bring quick relief.
"There are 64 beds there and four rooms for families," Burks said. "That’s 64 souls that are going to need a place to sleep at night. I hope this is a move to improve the systems of care but there is going to be a real struggle while those adjustments are made."
As the days wind down, the Salvation Army said staff will work with shelter residents to develop transition plans and explore housing options.
Ledford said the decision could come with critical consequences.
"It's either steal and live or go hungry and die," Ledford said. "We both know that the answer is going to be, I just hope I'm not here to see it.
The last day the Salvation Army will be accepting new residents is July 15 and the last day to provide emergency shelter for the remaining residents is August 31.
Tradesha Woodard: Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.