BLUEWELL, W. Va. -After seeing how cold temperatures impacted the area last year, the Bluewell United Methodist Church wanted to do their part to help. They decided to use their church building as a warming center, with the people of the church’s congregation volunteering their time to keep the center manned.
“We love that we have this resource, and it’s through volunteers through our church that we can open that warming center,” says Marilyn McKinney, administrative assistant of the Bluewell United Methodist Church.
When cold winter temperatures returned to Mercer County this year, the church stepped up again. They’re giving people a place to keep warm and providing soups and sandwiches, coffee and hot chocolate, and winter clothing and blankets to help people outlast the freezing temperatures.
McKinney says these resources are “very important” and without their help, people may have to decide between traveling out of town or spending the night in the cold. She encourages those who find themselves making that choice to spend the night here instead.
“You are welcome in this church. We do not turn anyone away. If you need food, if you need warmth, please come…” says McKinney, “…If you know of anyone that needs… It may be someone that they don’t have heat in their home right now, maybe the power’s out, you’re welcome to come and… get warmth here.”
If you are wanting to help out during this difficult time, McKinney says there is always a need for resources or volunteers and says to give the church a call at 304-589-5378.
The Bluewell United Methodist Church’s warming center is open 8:00 pm – 7:00 am, and it will be open through Wednesday, January 22nd if necessary.
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