Chicagoans Brave Freezing Temps

(CBS) -- With temperatures plunging Monday, CBS 2's Jim Williams spent the day with people who have no choice but to endure the cold.

Despite the return of heavy coats and scarves around faces, there were few signs of discomfort. On Clark Street, John Spalding even braved the weather in shorts, saying he is "Optimistic."

But optimism alone won't keep you warm, so at Alamo Shoes in Andersonville, there was a run on boots.

We had record breaking days on Saturday and Sunday," Price said. "They walk into all the department stores and major stores and they say there's no boots, everything is sold out."

Homeless men and women sleep under this bridge under Lake Shore Drive at Lawrence. It was so cold today their possessions were here...but they were not. Some are staying at North Side Housing, a shelter down the street.

"Even though our capacity is 72, we've been as high as 110," said Lisa Steward-Baugh.

Those like Ricky Robinson, who live there year round, are especially grateful today.

"I feel safe here," he said. "Trying to do the right thing. God has blessed me to be here."

The city of Chicago and delegate agencies also have crews on the streets trying to encourage the homeless to seek shelter.