As temperatures drop to dangerous levels Wednesday night, a couple of warming centers are preparing to offer shelter to Fresno's homeless population.
Freezing temperatures are quickly rolling into the central valley; a bitter chill that Jack Carter says could mean life or death.
Carter says, "This morning that was a worry. I'm looking down at my feet to take a shower and purple toes are not how we're designed."
Reality for Fresno's homeless population and that's why the city has opened up a warming center at the Frank H. Ball Community Center.
Jeffcoach says, "It gives people, participants and constituents of the community an opportunity to get out of the cold.
The center opened up Tuesday night but only 3 people took advantage. Only 20 people sought refuge from the cold at the Fresno Rescue Mission Tuesday night.
So, why such low attendance? Homeless advocate Bill Simon says the answer is simple.
Simon says, "They cannot bring there things in and so they can't go in."
Both warming centers ban the use of drugs and alcohol on premises, but according to Carter, the ban on shopping carts is why people would rather sleep on the streets.
Carter says, "To set it outside the gate and pray that it will be there in the morning is a big stretch of faith. "
Both warming centers open at 8pm and close at 7am. Those staying at the Fresno Rescue Mission will be provided a hot shower and breakfast.