Tulsa Mission Working To Keep Homeless Population Warm In Freezing Weather

Outreach teams from John 3:16 Mission are hitting the streets to find people sleeping in freezing temperatures and get them indoors. The shelter said they are keeping their doors open Monday night for everyone who needs help.

It was 23 degrees outside when News On 6’s Sawyer Buccy shot this video and the tents along a street in downtown Tulsa had people inside of them. She said she saw people who were covering themselves in blankets coated with sheets of ice.

"People who are homeless in this cold, unless they built up a really sturdy camp, have to walk all night long. So, people want to know, why are homeless people walking all over downtown Tulsa? They are doing it because if they stop, they will die," said Rev. Steve Whitaker.

Buccy said she explained to the three men that John 3:16 had their doors open for everyone but they didn't want to go. 

"There are some that under no circumstances will they come in and sometimes it is mental health related, sometimes it is addiction related, sometimes it is a personal reason," said Rev. Whitaker. "I am more than willing to do my part to make sure people are taken care of during times like this."

Outreach teams with John 3:16 Mission, hit the streets on days and nights with temps below freezing- trying to find people sleeping in the cold, walking to stay warm and encourage them to come inside.

"Even if they look like they are drunk, it doesn't mean they are drunk. They could be hypothermic," said Rev. Whitaker.

While some people refuse to come in, others are looking for help.

"That is going to be 1,500- 2,000 people that are going to be in a bad spot, we need to do a good job for them tonight," said Rev. Whitaker.

If you see someone who needs help and is refusing to go to a shelter- call John 3:16 Mission.

For more information, visit the John 3:16 Mission website here.