SAN ANTONIO — Several churches across the Alamo City are organizing an effort to help house people experiencing homelessness as this weekend dips into cold temperatures with chilling winds. They are hoping the community chips in with donations to continue these efforts in the churches.
Life Restored Church has worked to help shelter the homeless for three years, but wanted to expand its reach and contacted Church Under the Bridge, which ministers to homeless people. Other places of worship, as well as groups and businesses, stepped up to help as well, including Crossroads Baptist Church, Beth Simcha Synagogue, Ohana Academy, Alamo Baptist Church and Armadillo Boulders, to name a few.
Church Under the Bridge Senior Pastor Greg Goodrich says it's about more than just a break from the cold—it's about inspiring hope.
"If I can get them to understand that their current condition is not permanent, its temporary, and see where God wants them to go, we can get them on the steps to a better condition," Goodrich said.
While these groups have collected many donations, they're also hoping for ongoing help from the community.
"You should think about what you need to go outside and that's what's needed for the; scarves, hats, coats, nice warm beanies," said Dianne Talbert, director and church administrator at Church Under the Bridge.
They are also accepting donations of sleeping bags, blankets, snacks and cash to buy sleeping pads.
To donate, stop by Church Under the Bridge at 724 Chestnut Street after 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.