Rescue Mission Assists Homeless During Cold Weather

November 13, 2019 5:07 pm

By: Tim Studebaker

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Gene is homeless. He’s a former plumber who says he had to leave his job because of injuries and illnesses. He’s been homeless since July, and that means he’s facing his first winter without a warm place of his own. He’s keeping out of the cold at Providence Rescue Mission.

Gene says, “I couldn’t ask for a better place for someone in my situation, unless it’s my own home, which is what I’m looking for someday.”

While he looks for a permanent home, he spends his nights here at this privately funded, faith-based shelter, and typically heads out onto the streets during the day. But, with record-breaking cold on Wednesday, the people here at the shelter know the streets are not a safe place to be.

Providence Rescue Mission Executive Director Sean Carew says, “It’s deadly. Hypothermia is real. Struggling out in the cold is not a place to be.”

That’s why on cold days like this, they make their shelter available all day, not just overnight.

Carew says, “We go into what’s called ‘Code Blue.’ With Code Blue, the community knows that the homeless can come and stay here. We’re open for them 24 hours a day.”

It’s something Gene says is important to the homeless community.

Gene says, “Hopefully, enough people will know there are resources out there, and find them, because, you can die out there.”

The Providence Rescue Mission provides meals, emergency clothing, and shelter. If you or someone you know needs help, you can connect with them on their website, Facebook, or by phone. All of that information is below. They’re also accepting donations.

Website: https://www.providencerescuemission.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/providencerescuemission/

Phone: 401-274-8861