KEARNEY, Neb. - As snow and dangerously cold conditions dominate Central Nebraska, Crossroads Mission Avenue is working around the clock to provide shelter and a sense of community to those in need. 

 The organization was established in 1983 and has facilities in Hastings, Kearney, and Grand Island.

This winter, Crossroads has seen an increase in people seeking emergency shelter, with over 190 individuals currently in its facilities.

Crossroads Executive Director Daniel Buller says providing emergency shelter on dangerously cold days is one of the most important things their organization does. 

 “People have come in that have been either trying to live in their automobile or sofa surfing, you know, trying to find a place to stay every night just wanting to be sure that they're safe. And we've experienced law enforcement bringing people in off of the streets and of course safety is the main concern for everybody because during these times, we don't turn anyone away,” said Buller.  

Buller added that Crossroads isn’t just a temporary solution, and that their "Personal Resilience Program" offers long-term support in order to get back people on their feet.

He said the average stay for a crossroads resident is around 60 days. 

Crossroads encourages the public to help by directing anyone in need of shelter to their facilities.