SAN ANTONIO — San Antonians woke up to frigid conditions Monday morning, prompting many to crank up the heat. But those living on the streets don’t have that luxury, and instead seek other means of staying warm.
Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) is among the various local nonprofit organizations stepping up to help the homeless community during this week's cold front.
“When these temperatures drop, we push forward,” said Valerie Salas, CAM homeless services director.
The chilly invasion called for warm solutions in the form of shelter, clothing and a hot meal. CAM, alongside Corazon San Antonio, made that possible for at least 200 homeless people to start the week.
Salas noted at least 150 people lined up outside the CAM facilities early Monday morning hoping to get their hands on coats, blankets and other garments due to the cold temperatures. The nonprofit’s warehouse was damaged by a fire in August, and clothes donations are still needed to help replenish the inventory.
“Some had no shoes, some were just in shorts," Salas said. "We start to give out layers, we start to let them know where to keep warm."
CAM works with San Antonio police to help transport willing homeless men and women from the streets to Corazon’s day shelter.
“It’s a warm place where they can come and not only take respite from the cold temperatures, but they can get a hot meal and a shower,” Salas said.
Ronnie Owens has survived the streets, battled substance abuse and, as of Sunday night, endured the chilly conditions. He recalled a kind gesture by a fellow unsheltered community member.
Especially through the struggles of being homeless, Owens stressed he’s grateful for CAM’s existence. He was gifted fresh long-sleeved clothing, a beanie and a pair of boots.
“This was the first time in the six years I’ve been on the streets (that) someone actually laid a blanket over me as I slept,” Owens said. “It’s been a blessing, straight up. I would call it a Christmas.”
Haven for Hope, which serves approximately 1,700 people daily, is also working to provide warm relief. While the cold snap is forecasted to be a short one this week, Communications Director Terri Behling noted it’s never too late to prepare for the next wave.
“We do need more winter clothes,” she said. “We know some of those items will probably end up getting lost or left behind or forgotten. And then when we have another cold snap we’ll want to restock because we constantly have clients coming in and out of Haven.”
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