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The extremely frigid temperatures are threatening lives in Indianapolis. Local agencies and organizations are working together to make sure everyone has somewhere warm to sleep during the second polar vortex this month.
A few weeks ago, a homeless man died after spending the night outside in a tent with no coat. He decided not to seek shelter as temperatures dipped well below zero.
Horizon House Executive Director Teresa Wessel says outreach teams have been combing the city urging everyone to seek shelter and the message is getting through.
"They were able to convince them to take this seriously and that it was going to get that cold," says Wessel.
Horizon House has been designated as an overflow shelter and is housing up to 80 people every night during the vortex.
Wheeler Mission has had a full house all month says Chief Development Officer Steve Kerr.
"We have 124 permanent shelter beds, we can accomodate about 300 when all is said and done," says Kerr.
Both organizations are always in need of donations, especially mens winter coats and boots. Horizon House is accepting items like coffee and hot cocoa to help during the artic spell.
Monetary donations are welcome and can be given at wmm.org or horizonhouse.cc.
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