Frozen Pipes, Furnace Close Veteran Center

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Frigid weather has taken its toll on a self-financed veterans' assistance group where an open basement door spelled trouble for the water and heating systems.

Listen to Frozen Pipes, Furnace Close Veteran Center

Executive director Arnetha Gholston says a combination of sub-zero temperatures and forgetfulness led to frozen pipes and a frozen furnace at RTW Veteran Center at 5536 S. King Drive.

"The problem has been every time we thought it is done, we turn the water back on and more leaks," said Gholston.

Gholston says RTW Veteran Center serves 4,000 meals a month and shelters 38 homeless vets. She says with help from Service Employees International Union and a Saturday fundraiser, Gholston is hoping the veteran center can resume operations Tuesday or Wednesday.