Cold weather has set in in Metro Detroit, and the Pop Francis Center is working around the clock to get people off the streets and into their emergency shelter.
Father Tim McCabe SJ is President & CEO of the newly opened center, which aims to help those experiencing homelessness transition into permanent housing.
On Monday night (Jan. 20), he aimed to help as many people as possible.
“Right now, because of the polar vortex, we’ve opened up our gymnasium to hold an emergency shelter here so that anyone is on the streets can come in and shelter in place,” said Father Tim.
The gymnasium had enough room for 100 people, and they weren’t waiting for people to show up at their door.
“Ford gave us a shuttle transit van to use, so we’re picking people up that are on the streets if they want to come in, we bring them here,” Father Tim said.
When Local 4 visited with him, he had already brought six people to Pope Francis Center but was returning to help more people he saw in need.
“It feels like we may have just saved somebody’s life; the first guy we picked up had nothing. He didn’t have any gloves on; frostbite will set in quickly in his time of weather.”
The center, located at 2915 West Handcock, is one of two emergency shelters open Monday night.
The Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries on Woodward Avenue also works to keep others safe from the cold.
By Tuesday, Detroit’s public libraries and recreational centers will also serve as warming centers for anyone who needs them.
Anyone in need of emergency services tonight can call Pope Francis Center for a ride.
All you have to do is call 313-964-2823 ext 201. They have plenty of cots, pillows, food, and water available and can provide a separate area for women and children.
Medstar has also set up a mobile medical unit in case anyone needs additional care.
Anyone interested in helping their efforts can find out more at Popefranciscenter.org.