As temperatures in Pinellas County are set to drop significantly, the Homeless Leadership Alliance has announced the opening of cold weather shelters on Tuesday night.
The activation of these shelters is triggered when the National Weather Service forecasts a ‘feels like’ temperature below 40 degrees, ensuring those in need have access to warmth and safety. Each facility will remain open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following day, accommodating guests until capacity is reached. Many of these sites also provide a meal to guests, making them a crucial resource for the community.
Families with children will be given priority and placed in family shelters if space permits. For further assistance or information, residents can contact 2-1-1, Tampa Bay Cares. This helpline is instrumental in directing individuals and families to appropriate shelter services across the county.
The list of available shelters includes several prominent locations: the Boys and Girls Club of the Suncoast in Tarpon Springs, the First United Methodist Church in Clearwater, two locations in Pinellas Park, and multiple sites in St. Petersburg. Each shelter is strategically placed to serve different communities, emphasizing the county’s commitment to ensuring no one is left without shelter during the cold snap.
Specifically, shelters like the Northwest Church and the Salvation Army in St. Petersburg extend their hours to 7:30 a.m., providing extended relief for those seeking refuge. Meanwhile, the Unitarian Universalist Church, also in St. Petersburg, offers shelter with the caveat that visitors must navigate stairs to access the facility.
The opening of these shelters reflects Pinellas County’s proactive measures to safeguard its residents from severe weather conditions. As temperatures continue to drop, the community’s coordinated efforts ensure that those in need receive shelter and warmth.
Source: Fox13news
