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HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – In the face of dipping temperatures, a Huntsville church has its doors wide open for the homeless men and women.

Grateful Life Community Church on Oakwood Avenue has cots set up for a winter emergency shelter for the third year in a row.

The city gives the church cots and the community helps supply food and clothing for those who need it most. They will stay open as a warming center until temperatures rise above freezing for a full 24-hour period.

Leaders at the church say they feel called to help, especially knowing some of the homeless community do not use year-round shelters.

“Well there are some people who are more comfortable here because they come to church here, this is their church home,” explained Larry Jess, board chair for the church. “Others may be banned or have pets, and they won’t let them in with pets.”

Jess went on to say the church, that started as a music ministry for the homeless, is blessed to be in a community that gives. There is much need and many ways to help.

To learn more on how you can help or to contact the church, visit them here.