Crystal Palace to shelter homeless in Selhurst Park during freezing weather
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CRYSTAL PALACE are sheltering the homeless in Selhurst Park as the mercury dips below freezing this week.
The Eagles have converted a lounge at the ground to accommodate ten rough sleepers when temperatures go below zero degrees.
The emergency shelter opened on Thursday, with eight people brought in from the cold.
Croydon Council are working with Palace for the heartwarming gesture, with camp beds, a hot dinner and breakfast provided, as well as showers.
Phil Alexander, Crystal Palace's chief executive, claimed the club wanted to be a "force for good".
He continued: "We are delighted to be collaborating with Croydon Council and their partner agencies to ensure that rough sleepers can find an emergency shelter in the event of severe winter weather.
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"The club wants to be a force for good in the community and we are happy to do our bit to help those most in need."
Crystal Palace - who take on Liverpool at Anfield today - are long-term supporters of homeless charities, with stars including Christian Benteke visiting Croydon's Skylight centre last month.
Meanwhile, councillor Alison Butler added: "[Crystal Palace are] setting a standard for other clubs to follow."
"Freezing temperatures are a particular safety risk for rough sleepers and this is a wonderful gesture by Crystal Palace for helping us reduce that risk."