Homeless struggle to stay warm

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - This string of frigid nights is proving to be a challenge for the homeless, as well as those who work to try and keep them warm.

You will find no mail box, manicured lawn, or white picket fence around Frank Abate's home. He says his white 1991 Oldsmobile Cutless is his home.

"My mother passed away, I wasn't on the lease, so I got evicted," Frank explained. "I didn't get time to mourn for her, than the first thing I knew I was being evicted, so I had to deal with all of this."

When smoke from an exhaust mixes with the cold arctic air, you will know Frank is warm. But he can only do this for so long - gas costs money, and money is something he doesn't have much of.

"This is a cross the Lord gave me, I'm bearing it the best I could," he said.

Hundreds of people retreat to New Haven's Columbus House where warmth is offered in many layers. Some, like Frank - choose to go it alone.

"People don't want to come in, they might be afraid. A big crowded room, shelter here to our left, is just too much chaos for people. We do everything we can to convince them staying out there is really dangerous - people can die in weather like this," said Alison Cunningham, Executive Director, Columbus House.

St. Mary's Catholic Church is Frank's other home. He often attends three masses a day to temper the chill, but when the doors close, the road calls. Frank wonders when this road - will truly lead him home.