BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — As winter makes its way to the Southern Tier, a local homeless shelter is preparing. Volunteers of America Upstate New York provides emergency housing for men, women and families.

At the Binghamton chapter, despite capacity rules, they never turn anyone away during the winter. 

From November 1 to April 30, Volunteers of America follows the "no freeze" policy, giving a bed to anyone seeking shelter. 

The senior case manager says it's not just the cold that brings people in.

"They know they can come in and there's no judgement," said Danielle Garrick, the Volunteers of America Upstate New York senior case manager. "Whatever your past is, whatever your issues are, regardless of what is it, we're going to assist you and help you move forward."

Volunteers of America helps more than 6,000 people in Upstate New York each year. 

They are in need of donations right now, especially blankets, hats and scarves.