MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The recent winter blast is creating a dangerous challenge for dozens of people who have no place to go.

Several warming shelters are now open throughout the area.

One of them is the St. Ben's warming center at State and 9th, operated by the Capuchin Community Services.

Every night for the next four months, St. Ben’s will provide a warm and safe place to stay for dozens of people. They also want to help with long-term challenges like permanent housing, but the first concern is making sure people have a place to go.

Maurice Shehi stayed at St. Ben's Monday, Dec. 1. He told us, "Personally, I like being out where I can just be alone and protect myself, whatever."

Shehi does not want to have to use the warming center. "But on nights like this?" he asked, "Yeah. I feel good knowing I can stay warm."

Shehi just started a new job last month but said it's still difficult getting ahead. "I'm trying to get out of there. I don't like being where I'm begging or feel like I'm begging."

So on the worst nights this winter, he'll make his way to State and 9th, knowing he'll be safe.

On any given night, he'll be one of about 50 men and 20 women staying at St. Ben's.

Kenneth Howard is the site manager there. He said, "It's all about dignity. You really want to show people dignity. And that tears down those walls because every person deserves dignity."

Howard said the overnight warming center started in 2018 when they noticed people were not leaving the meal service on the coldest nights.

"The very next day, we just lifted up all those tables and chairs, and we put out some cots and we just started. No programming, no nothing. It was just a need," Howard said.

Since then, thousands of people have taken advantage of the service.

Most are fiercely independent and proud, like Shehi, who said, "Just know that everybody out here is not out here on the streets begging for change. Just try to be a little bit more understanding."

But Howard says everyone could use some help. "Do not let your pride keep you from being inside."

The warming shelter at St. Ben’s will open every night at 7 p.m. They’re having people register so that they’ll have a reserved spot through the end of March. And St. Ben’s will work to accommodate work schedules.