Community Missions seeks donations before arctic blast

St. Joseph will be facing freezing temperatures that could be dangerous or even deadly to the homeless population.

Community Missions - the outreach program which connects with local homeless individuals, is asking for donations to its cold weather shelters to better provide for those hoping to escape the bitter cold.

“We depend on (donations) and that's really it's kind of sad that we're depending on it, but it's also sad when you see the human race outside freezing or when you hear the stories of tragic things that happen just because it's cold," Juda House Care Coordinator Trenisha Thomas said. "So it's crucial that we get donations that people have somewhere to go. Where else would they be? Outside freezing? Where else would they be?"

The non-profit homeless shelter, Juda House, located at 700 Olive St. opened earlier this year to accommodate those escaping the blizzard in January.

Community Mission's leadership is working to expand its operations to be a 24-hour facility, but a lack of funding and supplies makes the task all the more difficult.

St. Joseph residents can help Community Missions and the homeless population by donating items to the shelter. Leadership has requested donations of the following items:

- Winter gear such as blankets, hats, gloves, socks and coats

- Hygiene products including shampoo, conditioner and body wash

- Dinnerware like Styrofoam cups and plastic silverware

- Cleaning supplies such as bleach, toilet bowl cleaner, disinfectant, laundry soap and multipurpose cleaner

Whether it's big or small, every donation makes a significant difference to those who depend on the cold weather shelters.

"All I can say is just, all of you out there that, have any extra blankets, extra coats, socks, clothes, anything like that. Please," Timothy Thomason, a visitor of the shelter, said. "If you're able, please come and donate them to the shelter and and all that to help others in my situation and to be highly appreciative and thank you all and God bless all of you."

"It's everything," Dennis 'Frenchie' French, another visitor of the shelter, said. "It means everything. It's really great, keeps us warm and fed and keeps looking forward."

Donations will be accepted any day of the week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Haven, located at 610 Olive St.

Those who wish to make a monetary donation or learn more about the cold weather shelters can visit Community Missions' website at cmcstjoe.org.