The people who oversee Rochester's homeless shelters are confident that everyone who wants a warm place to stay in this harsh weather has it.
Both the House of Mercy and Open Door Mission were over capacity Tuesday night.
By issuing a Code Blue, the shelters can add more beds and staff to meet the extra demand. They also provide additional services and shelter during the day.
But there are always a few people who can't be tempted to come in off the streets, even in the severe cold.
"They're pretty protected whether it's wind resistant tents, warm sleeping bags, and layers, layers, and layers,” said Anna Valeria-Iseman, executive director at Open Door Mission. “Of course it's something you and I might not choose to do but it's something that does still happen."
At the House of Mercy, founder Sister Grace Miller said there’s a heavy demand for winter coats and boots.
"We get some in and then they're gone immediately,” she explained. “And they're legitimate requests because we see many people without boots and gloves, and it's hard to see that in this kind of weather."
Donations can be dropped off at the House of Mercy Shelter at 285 Ormond Street in Rochester.
The Open Door Mission says it could also use winter clothes and boots, as well as underwear and socks. Donations will be accepted 56 North Plymouth or 210 West Main St.
