02/20/2025
Pope Francis Center (PFC) has opened the gymnasium at its Bridge Housing Campus as an emergency shelter to provide Detroit residents protection from extreme cold and snow. The shelter is open until 11AM tomorrow, although that could be extended if Detroit city officials determine the additional shelter space is needed because of ongoing severe weather.
“The tragic deaths of two children last week brings home the need for us to work together as a community to ensure that everyone in our city has a warm, safe place to spend the night,” said Fr. Tim McCabe, president and CEO of PFC. “We are pleased to work with the City of Detroit and have our new Bridge Housing Campus serve as an important resource during times of need.”
As in previous cold weather emergencies, Medstar Paramedics and EMTs will provide emergency medical assessment and care to those who seek shelter at the warming center. “Our personnel volunteer for shifts at the Pope Francis Center out of a committment to helping those who need it the most, during their most critical times of need,” said Kolby Miller, Medstar president and CEO. “Whether its providing cots, pillows, and blankets, or performing assessments and directing clincial care and health resources, we are proud to serve with the PFC team.”
PFC’s Bridge Housing Campus is located at 2915 West Hancock, St., in Detroit. The Vinnie Johnson Gymnasium will have 50 cots available. Blankets, meals, bathroom, shower facilities and private areas for women will be provided.
Families and youth seeking shelter or warming center placements should contact the
Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM) by calling the City of Detroit’s Housing Resource Services Helpline at 866-313-2520 operated 24/7 through Tuesday, Feb. 18.
PFC regularly serves more than 200 guests a day at its Day Center located off Jefferson in Detroit. Guests receive nutritious meals and have access to laundry and shower facilities, as well as outside professionals and agencies that help with housing, legal, medical and dental needs.
PFC took a major step forward in its mission to end chronic homelessness in Detroit with the opening of its Bridge Housing Campus last year. The 40-unit residential facility in Detroit’s Core City neighborhood provides residents with shelter, along with intensive medical, respite, psychological, addiction, social and job-readiness services. After their stay, residents transition to permanent supportive housing.
