A Bridgeport shelter geared up for the extreme cold by taking emergency measures to accommodate the homeless Wednesday.

Pastor Terry Wilcox, Bridgeport Rescue Mission's executive director, says the organization is passing out blankets, providing extra bedding, feeding those in need and keeping its doors open around the clock.

Rescue Mission officials tell News 12 Connecticut that it's expecting the number of people who need its services to double, and it wants the public to know it can accommodate the overflow.

Federal health officials say the risk of hypothermia, frostbite and death is dramatically higher for the homeless population. When organizations like the Bridgeport Rescue Mission get involved, that risk can be reduced by up to 50 percent.

Beverley Valdes, 64, says when the mercury takes a nosedive, having a roof over your head can make all the difference in the world.

Wilcox says they welcome donations from the public to help them meet their emergency needs.