TULSA, Okla. — Local organizations are working to bring the homeless supplies and get them inside as Green Country prepares for potentially severe winter weather.
“It’s really hard to say, but it’s very unlikely that somebody without the right equipment, or even with the right equipment, would make it through a sustained period of time outside after this," said Becky Gligo, executive director of Housing Solutions Tulsa.
The Housing Solutions Tulsa team is driving all around the city and reaching out to the homeless population to offer them shelter.
So far, they’ve picked up hundreds of people and are either paying for a hotel room for a week or taking them to a shelter. But some are still refusing to go inside.
“Trying to explain to everybody the imminent danger that they’re in," Gligo said. "And if they refuse to come with us, then we’re leaving them with gear to try to survive the weekend.”
It's giving them items such as blankets, tarps, tents, hand warmers gloves and hats. Housing Solutions Tulsa isn't alone in its service.
The Islamic Society of Tulsa is putting together food boxes for local churches and organizations. The mosque also filling duffle bags and backpacks with essential items for the homeless. Its goal is to hand out about 100 on Saturday.
“We are also giving them to community members so they can keep them in the car so when you see them at an intersection people are there waiting, they can get out of the car and hand them that," said Masood Kasim, chairman of the Islamic Society of Tulsa.
These organizations, and so many others across Green Country, are working to help the less fortunate at a time they need it most. They're not stopping until the last second.
“Tulsa’s not used to it," Nadia Janjua said. "We’re not equipped for this kind of weather. But I think everyone has a group spirit, a community spirit and we’re all coming together to help those who are in need."
Housing Solutions Tulsa asks that if you see someone on the street who needs to be inside, to let them know. It's also asking for donations. It costs $200 to put someone in a hotel for a week. If you'd like to donate or report someone, click here.
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