Cold Weather Alert: City Reports 60% Shelter Occupancy Rate for Homeless Amid Low Temperatures

The city has issued a special report on the low temperature following the winter season, prompting local authorities to take action to support those experiencing homelessness. The Social Affairs Bureau has provided shelter for 10 street friends, with approximately 60% of the residents in their homes and places of residence. Officials, including the Vice-Director of the Social Affairs Bureau, Emperor Chen Qun, and members of the Traveller Group, visited stations and parks last night to distribute 258 orders of cold goods and warn street friends about the cold weather, urging them to take warmer measures.

Once temperatures are forecast to drop below 12 degrees, the Social Affairs Bureau activates its low-temperature response protocol. This includes sending out messages to inform citizens about the conditions of street friends, single elders, and elderly welfare institutions across the city. The street friends’ associations are also extending their stay and offering assistance to help individuals escape the cold.

The Association of Friends of the Streets and the Human Security Fund will remain operational until 2400 hours. Additionally, the Human Security Fund will open an extended nighttime period from 2300 to 7 p.m. the following day. The public is encouraged to report any instances of homeless individuals in the streets by calling 110 for urgent assistance.

These efforts reflect a commitment to care for vulnerable neighbors, aligning with the biblical call to protect the marginalized, as seen in Proverbs 31:8-9. The city’s response highlights the importance of community responsibility and the need for continued support during times of hardship.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)