BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Frigid temperatures are leading to planned openings for warming centers in Mercer and Raleigh Counties.
The warming center in the City of Beckley has been open the last two nights with it expected to be open again on Tuesday night.
The executive director for the United Way of Southern West Virginia, Trena Dacal says the warming center located at the Beckley Community United Methodist Church is expected to open on Tuesday night from 8 pm to 7 am Wednesday as long as there are enough volunteers to staff the center.
“We saw at least 14 guests on Sunday night and I’m not sure what the number of guests was for Monday night but it was utilized both nights. Anyone who is without housing or doesn’t have a warm safe place to shelter during these weather conditions can come spend the night,” said Dacal.
Dacal says the plan is for the center to continue to open when temperatures reach 15 degrees or below including the wind chill factor.
Dacal says volunteers for the center are still needed. Dacal says anyone interested in volunteering can also reach out to her for more information. Dacal can be reached by emailing [email protected].
Leaders with the office of emergency management in Mercer County are encouraging people in need of shelter from the cold in the Princeton or Bluefield area to contact the Mercer County 911 center’s non-emergency line at 304-425-8911.
Those in need of shelter may be able to get help from the Princeton Salvation Army or the Bluefield Union Mission.
The Matoaka Volunteer Fire Department will have their fire station open starting at 6 pm on Tuesday for those in need of a warm place to be.
The Bluewell United Methodist Church on Warden Avenue will be open from 8 pm to 7 am to serve as a warming center as well.
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