DTSB, local agencies prepared to help homeless population during extreme weather

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With extreme weather conditions approaching, Downtown South Bend is working alongside other agencies to ensure all unhoused residents have resources and shelter to ensure they stay safe and warm.

DTSB is working hard to ensure their efforts will help keep people off the streets before it’s too late.

For the last few days South Bend has experienced life-threatening temperatures and just a few days ago a man was found dead inside of a tent.

DTSB officials continue to roam downtown to warn those with no homes how dangerous these conditions are.

Officials say the warning seemed like it didn’t mean much to those who had experienced even worse weather conditions before.

Some people remain on the streets, but some have taken their safety into their own hands and are now utilizing abandoned buildings nearby such as The State Theater to escape the cold.

ABC57 stopped by the building to find the doors unlocked for anyone to enter. The owner has been contacted but with no response.

DTSB has a winter amnesty program physically on the ground and in the streets supporting those in need with shelter during harmful weather conditions without the usual restrictions.

Outreach officials mentioned that many people are skeptical about shelters due to their strict rules, hours, and sobriety conditions.

Willow Wetherall, the DTSB Executive Director, says they just want the community to have someone to lean on when things get rough.

"The conditions are so dangerous right now that you need people that have that trusting relationship and trusting connection to be able to say, 'hey, it's time to get out of the tent, it's time to get off the street, we've got to get you sheltered tonight and keep you safe,'” said Wetherall.

If you or someone you know needs shelter during these harmful weather conditions, you are encouraged to visit the Center for the Homeless at 813 S. Michigan St. or visit the DTSB website for a list of resources they are providing to those in need.