Who in their right mind would go for a run in the freezing cold at the end of February?

Speaking on the January 28 edition of the weekly local public affairs show, Regional Director of the Rescue Mission, Michael Ross explains participants in the upcoming Freeze Out 5K to End Homelessness not only have fun running in the cold and the dark but they get a better grasp on what people who have to live in the elements deal with.

The annual run raises money for the Rescue Mission including the support services and housing for men at Whitney Place in Binghamton and in independent housing once men transition from that facility.

Ross says while there has been progress in reducing homelessness in the area, the number of families needing services continues to grow.

Ross continues to say more people are curious about what is behind homelessness than have a negative reaction and most want to know how to help.

To find out more about the February 24 Freeze Out 5K at 7 p.m. at Highland Park in Endwell, go to the event website: http://rescuemissionalliance.org/freezeout-5k/

Southern Tier Close Up can be heard Saturdays at 12:10 p.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF.

More From WNBF News Radio 1290 AM & 92.1 FM