OKC expanding shelter capacity for homeless during artic blast

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Oklahoma City is expanding shelter options for some of our most vulnerable citizens.

As temperatures plummet to life threatening numbers, the city is offering help for the metro's homeless population.

"I just want everyone to know that they're important and they're valued," said Jamie Claves with Key to Home Partnership. "The city has worked with homeless shelters across the community to expand winter shelter capacity and provide overflow winter shelter beds."

The homeless alliance and city rescue mission are boosting their capacity.

Families can also find shelter at St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral in downtown OKC.

"Pivot and Youth Services are both providing some additional capacity for youth so that we can cover all populations and everyone has a safe place to be during these freezing temperatures," said Claves.

Embark is offering free rides to the shelters.

"They'll take them to the closest shelter and drop them off at a safe place to be," said Claves.

With emergency shelters in high demand, there's also a greater need for supplies.

"One of the challenges will be making sure that the shelters have food and snacks and their staff is able to get to the shelters to run," said Claves. "Cold weather items such as hot hands and gloves are really helpful to send to the shelters to make sure that people that are choosing to leave have access to those items."

The city is expected to help through the weekend.

"We won't turn people away. We'll make sure that they're space for everyone. It may be a mat on the floor, but we'll make sure they're space for everyone," said Claves.

City officials said if you have a pet, you will be allowed to bring them inside with you.