COLUMBIA, MO. -- Extreme heat has put a heavy burden on Salvation Army homeless shelters in Jefferson City and Columbia.

On Tuesday night, dozens of extra cots were used at Columbia’s Harbor House and Jefferson City’s Center for Hope.

Salvation Army Officials said the Columbia Harbor House and the Jefferson City Center for Hope are full because of the heat.  Homeless people and those without air-conditioning are desperate for cooler temperatures.

David Blake is homeless.  Blake is just one of dozens of people escaping from the heat at The Harbor House.  Shelter workers are having a hard time keeping the lemonade flowing and the cool air blowing.

Blake said, “I drink a lot of water here.  I got juice and stuff here.  I ain’t doing too bad right now.  I’m doing better than what I was a couple of months ago.”

Many homeless people are coming to the shelters just to take a shower.  They’re also washing their clothes more often because of the heat.

Salvation Army Regional Director Major K.K. Mathews said, “Our heart is just moved to compassion when we see people coming in, and not knowing where they are going to go when they leave us.  We’re blessed because we are able to provide that temporary service.”

Major Mathews is asking for donations of shampoo, soap, towels and laundry detergent as his showers work overtime.

The best way to help is by dropping off your donations at The Center for Hope or at The Harbor House.

During this heat wave, Salvation Army workers say their shelters are at capacity with 61 beds in Columbia and 41 beds in Jefferson City.

They are also providing additional cots on a first come, first serve basis.