As temperatures across the country plunge as far as 80% below normal — accompanied in many regions by punishing blizzards — there are the usual concerns: chapped lips and cold hands, dangerous driving conditions and school cancellations, stores sold out of snow shovels and de-icer.
With thousands of people living on the streets and sleeping in the subways, New York City’s homeless situation can seem like an overwhelming crisis. But one woman is gamely trying to do her part. Sandy Irrera knows she can’t solve the problem all by herself. “But I’m doing what I can, in my own small way, to help,” she said.
A religious deli owner in Borough Park who started giving food and shelter to homeless men 15 years ago is still providing help, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now that the MTA is shutting down the entire New York City subway system during late-night hours, advocates for the homeless are stepping up their efforts to help find them food and shelter.
