There are around 68,000 people experiencing homelessness in Chicago, according to Chicago.gov.The winter weather conditions are harsh and unbearable. People experiencing homelessness are at risk for hypothermia or even death due to the lack of vital resources such as insulated winter clothing. How can we help? 

On the coldest of days, the City of Chicago allows people to visit its 6 warming centers. A warming center is a heated facility that offers refuge from extreme cold weather. Chicago police stations and hospitals commonly allow people to sit in lobbies or waiting rooms to escape cold conditions. For more information on weathering the winter, call 3-1-1. 

Chicago has approximately 100 overnight shelters that provide a hot meal and a bed to those who are experiencing homelessness. Around 5,000 beds are available at any given time, according to Chicago.gov. 

What can we, as a community, do to help protect our fellow human beings? Coat drives or donation centers are an excellent solution. There is always someone out there who can re-use your gently used coats. 

Donating gently used coats is one of the easiest and most crucial ways to help people who are experiencing homelessness. One Warm Coat is a national nonprofit organization providing free coats to children and adults in need.  

We can help people in need in plenty of ways, especially during the winter season. Locally, coat drives and other organizations are helping to fight homelessness. Consider donating to help save lives.