IMPD gathering clothes to keep homeless warm in winter

INDIANAPOLIS — With winter weather here almost two months before the official start of the season, Pat McPherson of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department's homeless unit is getting ready for a busy next few months.

"We need everything. Heavy gloves, heavy hats, scarves, blankets. Anything to keep people warm," McPherson said.

Snow fell and temperatures dropped into the 30s Thursday, and it has created an even bigger problem than usual.

"With the cold and the wet, we're dealing with hypothermia and some different things," McPherson said.

That's why several officers have taken warm, dry clothing from an IMPD facility to keep in their cars to distribute when they see someone in need.

On the streets of Downtown Indianapolis, people were bundled up and walking fast to get wherever they were going and out of the cold. But for folks who are living on the streets, it's not that easy. That's why McPherson hopes the community can step up to help them help those in need.

"Anything that anybody can provide, we're happy to accept," McPherson said.

Anyone who would like to donate clothing to IMPD's homeless unit can go to their nearest police station.