SAN ANGELO, Texas — Salvation Army of San Angelo staff and leaders are prepping the organization's shelter to double as a warming center as an arctic blast is making its way to the area.
As the temperatures continue to drop, the Salvation Army said it plans to provide extra overnight beds so those experiencing homelessness can stay indoors and get off the streets.
“It is inevitable that more people will come to us for assistance this week, especially seeking overnight shelter from the bitter cold,” Major Alfonso Martinez said in a release. “We will make an additional 15 emergency beds available in our shelter during inclement weather, on top of the 25 beds available for inclement weather season 'Out Of The Cold' program. We will do our best to make sure everyone has a warm, safe place to sleep and no-one is left outside exposed to the freezing winter weather. We currently have people staying in our shelter, including men and women.”
In addition to overnight shelter, the organization will also open the building during the day as a warming station any time the temperature drops below 36 degrees.
“We’ll be opening our doors as a warming station so that people can come in off the streets and warm up a little before going about their day,” Martinez said. “They do need to register to stay the night and there is no charge for any services. We just want those in need to be safe during this cold snap and for them to know that The Salvation Army is here for them.”
The warming station will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at 34 W. 3rd St.
“As temperatures drop, we recognize the critical need for our services, particularly for our most vulnerable neighbors facing real, life-threatening challenges,” Martinez said. “Because The Salvation Army is embedded in the communities where it serves, teams are already on the ground and can respond immediately when a disaster strikes, or weather suddenly turns. As the cold sets in, The Salvation Army will continue to keep hope alive and meet immediate and long-term community needs, not just during this winter, but year-round."
Anyone registering for overnight stays is required to a valid ID. Without ID, people have to get clearance from the San Angelo Police Department.
For more information about the warming station and shelter, call 325-655-6981, visit salvationarmysanangelo.org, or stop by 34 W. 3rd St.
