John 3:16 Helps Tulsans In Need During Colder Weather

Homeless shelters are ready for an increase of people looking to stay warm as we face another night of very cold temperatures.

Area shelters said they're not at capacity yet, but they are seeing an increase of people since Sunday's snow. 

“It’s pretty cold. I don’t know what the temperature was, but cold," said Andy Powers.

Powers said he heads to John 3:16 Mission to get out of the frigid temperatures, and he isn't the only one looking to get warm there.

“People are coming in and some have been outside too long, so they’re a little overly cold and need an opportunity to get warmed up. We offer coffee, hot chocolate and a good warm place for people to be cared for," said Reverend Steve Whitaker. 

Reverend Whitaker said the non-profit is currently seeing a 25 percent increase of people since the weekend snowfall and he expects to see more people tonight.

Just down the street, the Salvation Army Center of Hope is also seeing an uptick of people. Last night, 130 people stayed at the downtown location.

Tulsa Day Center said they’re seeing an increase too. The shelters not at capacity yet, but they are limited because of the pandemic.

“Unfortunately, warming areas like the one we just saw are congregate in nature so you can mask people up. Fortunately, many people are aware at this point in time that COVID is very low among the homeless at least for now," said Reverend Whitaker. 

He said they're also checking on people who stay at homeless camps. 

“Most people are staying out. Our experience is when it’s cold like this most people will try to stay in their camp to protect their belongings as long as they can. Some are staying out for other reasons, but we’re doing out very best to make sure that they’re taken care of, but only a few have come back," said Reverend Whitaker.