SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — As frigid weather lingers in KELOLAND, a nonprofit is seeing more people reaching out for help.

Jamie Cody is the 211 director at the Helpline Center.

From being homeless, to helping the homeless

She says the cold snap has people reaching out about issues and needs like frozen pipes, winter clothing, and food.

In fact, earlier this week, KELOLAND News reported on frigid weather impacting some of Feeding South Dakota’s food distributions.

“Everyone’s just trying to make sure those pantries are still happening for those individuals that are really needing food at this time,” Cody said.

One of the most popular cold weather-related calls this week has been shelter.

“It’s just too cold to be out during the day where a lot of times, walking to work and doing those things is really doable. It’s just not safe to be out there during long periods of time so just utilizing some of those day shelters and homeless shelters is very popular,” Cody said.

While Cody and staff connect people with resources, they also offer encouragement.

“It’s just that soft, gentle reminder that we all struggle and it may not be with the same things, but we’ve all had those feelings of frustration or feeling like nothing’s working, so we can really hone in on some of those feelings and talk to our callers too,” Cody said.

Cody says 211 is also getting calls from people looking for ways to help during the cold snap, such providing winter gear for people in need.