Candice Payne Generously Houses Homeless During Chicago’s Freezing Temperatures

Candice Payne, instagram @candicepayne_

Jasmine Sixtos, Reporter

The media often showcases news which makes us fear and see the cruelty of the world; however, this month the media focused on the generous deed by a good Samaritan.

The weather in Chicago dropped to sub-zero temperatures early in February, making it impossible for residents to stay warm, especially those who are not fortunate enough to have the necessary jackets and blankets needed in order to provide their bodies with heat.

On February 1st, Candice Payne, a real estate developer, was reported to have paid for 70 hotel rooms for the homeless. She persistently contacted hotels hoping they would allow her to buy rooms for the homeless. Ms. Payne was rejected on various occasions as the hotels feared the poverty-stricken would affect their business. Thankfully, The Amber Inn welcomed the idea and made it a reality. Initially, the donor had booked 30 rooms for one night using her credit card.

As the plan was finally going into action she began worrying about transportation so she took the idea to Instagram, asking for donations and/or assistance. According to USA Today, the post went viral instantaneously and Payne received enough help to reserve 70 hotel rooms for five nights which gave shelter to more than 100 residents.