Salvation Army opens emergency location amid bitter cold in Chicagoland

CHICAGO - Amid Chicago’s frigid blast, there was much work to be done Wednesday.

The Salvation Army had boots on the ground, trying to keep those in need out of the arctic air.

"The most important thing is that all community members deserve a safe and healthy place during this time," said Maj. Enrique Azuaje, general secretary with The Salvation Army Metropolitan Division.

In partnership with the City of Chicago, the organization has opened a new emergency shelter at The Salvation Army Freedom Center.

Named the Harbor Light Emergency Homeless Shelter, it is providing beds to 99 men. 

Each guest will also receive three meals a day, clothing, hygiene products, medical attention and COVID-19 safety kits. 

The shelter will remain open 24 hours a day until March 31.

"I think it just brings back humanity to them," said Capt. Nikki Hughes with The Salvation Army Freedom Center. "Coming to this area, you’re passing by a tent city. I’m cold, you’re cold, we’re all cold and I cannot imagine being at this time homeless and sleeping in the cold weather."

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While the emergency shelter is currently at capacity, The Salvation Army's warming center opened Tuesday night on a walk-in basis. 

Located at 825 N. Christiana Ave. in Humboldt Park, men and women who need a safe and warm place to stay are welcome there from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.

"We not only provide transportation to that shelter, but all the other shelters in the city that are funded by the City of Chicago," said Leon Denton, The Salvation Army divisional social services director.

Denton said part of their mission is to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head during the extreme cold.

"It means a lot to people. Many people who come to us are on their last, last effort. They’ve come out, they are in the streets. They’ve lost hope. What we hope to do is to restore hope because as long as you’ve got hope, there’s a chance," said Denton. "Everybody deserves to have a warm bed, food and everything that they need in order to continue their livelihood."

If you are looking for a warm and safe place to stay, you’re encouraged to dial 311 to be connected with an available shelter and transportation services.

Meantime, if you'd like to help, The Salvation Army Freedom Center is currently in need of hygiene products and men's clothing.