Here’s How You Can Help People Experiencing Homelessness During the Polar Vortex

As a polar vortex sweeps across the Midwest, many people bundle up inside, hands over heaters, hidden away from subzero temperatures. But some citizens are left in the cold. Record-breaking temperatures lower than Siberia, the Arctic, and even Mars have already led to the deaths of eight people — and more than 80,000 people remain on the streets fighting to not just stay warm but to stay alive.

In Chicago, one anonymous donor went viral for picking up the hotel tab for 70 people experiencing homelessness after they were evacuated from a tent city at risk of exploding propane tanks, according to the Chicago Tribune. We may not all have the means to go to such incredible lengths, but there are plenty of ways you can help. Ahead are resources so you can aid those without adequate shelter.

01
Call Shelter Hotlines
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Call Shelter Hotlines

If you see someone experiencing homelessness out in the brutal cold, help them find a warming center, open in cities affected by the polar vortex. To locate these centers, call a shelter hotline, and direct them to a warming center.

To find specific shelters in your area, use the Homeless Shelter Directory, and learn more about resources for people experiencing homelessness near you via the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Resource Locator.

02
Donate Supplies
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Donate Supplies

Donate coats, blankets, socks, and heavy-duty boots to homeless shelters. Hygiene items, such as pads, toothpaste, and soap, are also needed. (We've put together this helpful list of charities and organizations accepting donations.)

When it comes to food, you can see what items are needed at your local food bank using the Feeding America locator.

03
Purchase Train and Bus Passes
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Purchase Train and Bus Passes

Give the gift of transportation. Purchase train and bus passes, and offer them to people experiencing homelessness. Public transportation passes give these individuals the opportunity to get to shelters safely and comfortably in heated busses and trains.

04
Buy Gift Cards
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Buy Gift Cards

Purchase gift cards to restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores. Hand these out to people you see experiencing homelessness so they can buy warm food and gain access to a heated environment.

05
Offer Financial Support
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Offer Financial Support

Lastly, if you are able to, offer financial support to a shelter or those experiencing homelessness. Donating money to shelters helps to pay for supplies and operations. Or give money directly to people experiencing homelessness toward their fund for shelter.

Consider donating to these worthy organizations fighting to end homelessness: