BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Mission at Kern homeless shelter is asking for the community's help.

The shelter said that they are in desperate need of masks as the nature of their services requires close contact. Officials said they currently have more than 300 people in their shelter and that number keeps growing.

"We've seen a lot of people in the community to receive meals on Wednesdays to receive food distribution. We have seen an increase," said Director of Community Development Jamie Durham.

The shelter is accepting donations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. They are located at 821 East 21st Street.