New warming center on Milwaukee's north side will open for 'Survival Sundays'

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church on N. 15th Street and Wright Street welcomed more than 20 people seeking shelter from the cold on Sunday, Dec. 29.

Pastor Janice Bond took over the church three years ago after her father passed.

"I knew there was a lot more we could be doing with the building," said Bond.

She says she was called to open the church doors to more than just her congregation

"There is more to be done than just delivering the message, praise, and worship. People out there need heat, they need food," said Bond.

She is calling it "Survival Sunday," since most shelters close on Sunday at 7a.m.

"That's what it's all about, love. It makes me feel great because there's too much hatred, anger, and violence in the world today," said Bond.

According to the Associated Press, homelessness is up 18% nationally, up from 12% in 2023.

Here in Milwaukee, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the number of unsheltered people has decreased by around 35% in 2023.

However, nearly 1,000 people are still experiencing homelessness in Milwaukee.

Pastor Montrell Taylor says the need in Milwaukee is great and must be addressed.

"You see the frustration, you see the discomfort, you see the sadness on the people when you're riding by," Taylor explained.

He hopes that, with the help of the community, the program will expand.

"The need of the people, this is not a one-hit-wonder thing we are going to push to have this all year round," said Taylor.

Pastor Taylor says their mission can be summed up in one verse - Matthew 25:34.

"I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited me in," said Taylor.

For now, Survival Sunday is open on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pastor Bond says attendance at service is required; afterward, the guests can enjoy food, games, fellowship, and watching TV.

She's also accepting monetary and food donations to keep the program running. You can stop by the church at 2479 N. 15th Street or call Pastor Bond at 414-499-5028.