Cold Weather Shelters Open Across the Midlands

News Summary

As winter temperatures plunge in the Midlands of South Carolina, local churches and organizations have opened cold weather shelters to provide safe havens for those in need. Locations such as RADIUS Church in Lexington and O’Neal Street United Methodist Church in Newberry are offering warmth, hot meals, and a place to rest. With demand expected to surge, community support is crucial as temperatures drop below freezing, highlighting the need for compassion in these challenging times.

Cold Weather Shelters Open Across the Midlands to Provide Safe Haven Amid Frigid Temperatures

As the icy grip of winter tightens its hold on the Midlands of South Carolina, local churches and organizations are stepping up to ensure that those in need can find a safe and warm place to escape the bone-chilling cold. With temperatures expected to drop below freezing and a possible wintry mix heading our way, the community is mobilizing to provide warmth and comfort during these harsh conditions.

Warm Shelters Sprouting Up in Lexington

One of the first sites to open its doors is RADIUS Church – White Knoll, located at 5181 Platt Springs Road, Lexington. This warming center has opened its doors from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from January 6 to January 10, giving individuals a cozy refuge from the frigid outdoor temperatures. Community members looking to help out can drop off donations at a bin outside the gym entrance, as the church is welcoming items to support their warming efforts.

Newberry’s Warming Center Offers Hot Meals and Rest

Meanwhile, up in Newberry, the O’Neal Street United Methodist Church opened its warming center at 10 a.m. on January 7. This center offers hot meals and cots for folks needing a place to rest. With the temperatures falling, this warm shelter is a beacon of hope for many, providing not just shelter but also the essential nourishment required during these challenging times.

Orangeburg Joins in the Effort

In Orangeburg, the city gym has transformed into a warming shelter, open from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. from January 7 through January 11. Located at 410 Broughton Street, this shelter will offer basic amenities designed to keep residents comfortable and safe as the outdoor temperatures plunge.

Preparing for the Demand

With lows set to hover between 20 and 25 degrees, various local shelters are bracing themselves for a surge in demand. Organizations like Harbor House in Columbia are making preparations to aid unhoused individuals as extreme cold conditions set in. This facility, which typically serves over 50 residents, ensures that beds, food, and water are available, and operates a cold cot program whenever the temperature drops below 35 degrees.

Room at the Inn Enhances Capacity

Additionally, Room at the Inn is responding to the winter storm by increasing its capacity. Normally operating from 6:30 p.m. to 8 a.m., the facility will remain open during the day when temperatures reach dangerously low levels, providing hospitality and shelter to those in need.

A Striking Need for Support

As of 2023, data indicates that there are at least 270 unhoused individuals residing in Boone County alone. With temperatures threatening to dip close to zero this week, the shelters throughout the Midlands are expected to experience overwhelming demand. Community members are being encouraged to support these vital initiatives as they work to keep everyone warm.

Thankful Residents

While the city braves the cold, many who benefit from these services express heartfelt gratitude for the compassion shown by these organizations and churches. The warmth of community support offers a flicker of hope as the harsh reality of winter bears down upon them.

As the temperatures drop, it is a vivid reminder of the powerful impact that community efforts can have. So let’s rally together, support our local shelters, and ensure no one is left out in the cold!