News Summary
As a severe winter storm brings icy winds and freezing temperatures, communities in the South are stepping up by opening warming shelters to support those in need. Various localities, including Pee Dee, Memphis, and even southern Kentucky, have launched initiatives to provide refuge, meals, and essential supplies to residents facing the harsh winter conditions. The collaborative efforts highlight the strength of community spirit as people join forces to ensure safety and warmth during this challenging time.
Communities Join Hands to Battle Winter’s Chill Across the South
As a serious winter storm brings icy winds and freezing temperatures, communities throughout the South are stepping up to provide much-needed shelter for those in need. Local authorities have designated Friday night into Saturday morning as Weather Aware Days, encouraging residents to take precautions as they brace for the cold.
Warming Shelters Opening Across the Pee Dee Region
In the Pee Dee area, warming centers have quickly opened their doors, ensuring safety for those seeking refuge from the low temperatures. The Second Baptist Church is leading the charge by launching its warming shelter this Wednesday. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day until further notice. Anyone who wishes to stay overnight must arrive by 7 p.m. to secure a spot.
The efforts don’t stop there! Mayor Casey Hancock has confirmed that the church’s warming shelter has received generous food donations, including essentials like bread, meat, cheese, cereal, and milk. Items were graciously supplied by Hartsville Food Lion. Furthermore, the city has contributed bottled water and sleeping cots to ensure comfort during these chilly nights.
More Shelters in the Area
Meanwhile, Dillon County looks to offer support of its own with its warming shelter kick-starting operations on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Guests can expect to find cots and blankets, though pets are not allowed, personal items, however, are welcome.
The City of Marion is also doing its part, opening the Grice’s Recreation Center as a warming shelter starting Tuesday evening at 5 p.m. This center will remain open until 7 a.m. and will continue to provide shelter until January 11. Florence has jumped on board as well, with a warming center set to operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. when temperatures plunge below 40 degrees. This center will be located at the Courtney McGinnis Graham Community Shelter.
Bennettsville is preparing to offer relief through its Community Center, which will operate as a county-wide warming shelter on January 9th and 10th from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. and on January 11th from midnight to 8:00 a.m.
Memphis and Surrounding Areas Join the Cause
Over in Memphis, the response is on the rise with multiple warming centers slated to assist residents as temperatures drop. The Memphis Area Transit Authority is stepping in, providing transportation to these centers upon request. While supplies last, sack meals and blankets will be available to those seeking shelter.
Additionally, the Tunica Warming Center in Mississippi opened its doors on Thursday at 6:00 a.m. and will continue to operate daily until further notice. Over in Alcorn County, the shelter launched on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and anticipates remaining open for the week. Arkansas is not left behind either, with the Marion Warming Center opening its doors on Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. to provide a warm haven until Saturday at 10:00 a.m. Note that individuals leaving after 6:00 p.m. will not be able to re-enter until the subsequent day.
Efforts Extending into Kentucky and Beyond
Meanwhile, organizations across south-central Kentucky have risen to the occasion as well, offering shelters in areas including Allen County, Barren County, and Warren County. For those further north, South Attleboro Fire Station in Massachusetts has opened as an overnight shelter from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. whenever temperatures dip below 25 degrees—keeping the community safe until additional facilities are available.
As the winter storm sweeps across the South, it’s heartening to see communities banding together to look out for one another. Whether it’s providing meals, warm beds, or simply a safe space to stay, the warmth of community spirit shines through the cold. Stay safe, everyone!
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Warming Centers
- WALB News
- Google Search: Warming Centers Georgia
- 6ABC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Shelters
- Patch Narragansett
- Google News: Warming Shelters Rhode Island
- 11 Alive News
- Google Scholar: Winter Weather Shelters
- CBS 12 News