DuPagePads Responds to Frigid Weather Crisis, Serves Homeless through Arctic Blast
During this winter’s Arctic Blast, DuPagePads has remained committed to the health and safety of families and individuals who are homeless. With subzero temperatures and windchills sometimes as low as negative 40 degrees, DuPagePads developed solutions that would ensure no one would be exposed to the elements when weather conditions could seriously jeopardize their health.
DuPagePads responded by extending the hours of their daytime Client Service Center in downtown Wheaton, offering shelter for everyone in need. Bus, train and taxi vouchers were provided to transport individuals between the Client Service Center and Interim (Overnight) Housing sites. At the Interim (Overnight) Housing sites, no one was turned away due to capacity and many sites opened as early as 2:00 pm. DuPagePads staff ensured everyone had proper clothing: coats, hats, gloves and even supplied hand and feet warmers.
We want to thank all of our donors, volunteers and congregations who helped us respond to this weather crisis and make sure that our program participants remained safe. Visit our YouTube Page to see our gratitude and hear directly from those who benefited:
“We have a place to go to keep warm and they have food for us and hot coffee. Without DuPagePads, I don’t think I could have made it. I’m grateful and blessed, thank you DuPagePads!”
“Without a place to stay when it gets 20 below, you can freeze to death pretty quickly. DuPagePads has been very helpful in getting me back on my feet and I’m very thankful.”
Thank You for Taking Action
Motivated by thinking of people who are homeless in this frigid cold, Kaitlyn organized a generous cash donation to be used to help transport families and individuals to shelters and warming sites. Pictured from left to right: Janelle Barcelona, DuPagePads Director of Development, Kaitlyn and her mother Jennifer dropping off the donation.- The Carol Stream Public Library is donating the proceeds from their Jeans Day toward our mission to keep people safe from the bitter cold.
ABC 7 Chicago news, My Suburban Life and WDCB Radio News all promoted our services to individuals and families who are homeless during the dangerous weather.
