Milwaukee pastor opens shelter for homeless

MILWAUKEE - Bridging a gap and helping those in need of shelter, a Milwaukee church is opening up its doors for the homeless each Sunday this winter.

Many shelters close for part of the day. Pastor Janice Bond is opening her church to give people a warm place to go this winter.

"We just have a blessed time in the Lord," Bond said.

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At 15th and Wright, she is following in her father's footsteps.

The pews are usually filled with a lot of familiar faces, but Pastor Bond is hoping that changes. She's started what's called "Survival Sundays," inviting those in need of shelter into the church.

"I want to be a light to the city," Bond said. "I love helping people in any way that I can."

This past Sunday was the kick-off. Two dozen people showed up for food, prayer and warmth from 8:30 A.M. until the early evening.

Church leaders learned Sundays have some of the greatest needs.

"We’re trying to bridge that gap and open that door and say come on in, have a good time," Pastor Montrell Taylor said. "We’re really just here to do ministry and to serve the needs of the people."

Pastor Bond wants to help as many as she can, hopeful her mission will spread. 

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"We need more love in Milwaukee, and we need to care more about one another," she said.

Survival Sundays will continue through the winter.

Bond said depending on the need and the weather, they may expand to more days of the week.

Those interested in donating can do so through Pastor Bond at 414-499-5028.