The CEO of the largest provider of shelter services in Fairfield County says this winter has been tough on their staff and clients.

Rosealba Messina says Inspirica's facilities have been at capacity almost every night due to the brutal temperatures and snow.

Normally each night, the nonprofit provides housing to over 500 individuals including children across their 12 facilities.

On Monday, Rep. Jim Himes visited the nonprofit.

Messina says the visit was important because Inspirica needs as much support as possible.

She adds it's good for people, such as Himes, to be aware of their clients' stories because the profile of someone who is experiencing homelessness has evolved over the years. "These are people who really do hold down jobs and because of either medical burdens or because of losing a job in the moment they are unfortunately at risk of being homeless," she says. Messina and the nonprofit hope to work with local and state partners to build more affordable housing in Stamford. Inspirica serves over 4,000 people annually providing individuals with both permanent and temporary housing, workforce training, youth services and more.