Franklin County’s Warming Shelter offers protection from extremely cold conditions

Franklin County, Virginia – More than 12,000 Franklin County residents were without power Monday due to the unfavorable winter weather. Organizations came up to provide a comfortable spot for folks to stay overnight during the extremely cold temperatures.

The county’s warming shelters were designed to assist those without electricity or with nowhere else to go. Redwood United Methodist Church and the Scruggs and Cool Branch Fire Departments both had warming shelters built up.

Those who are homeless are especially at risk during this type of weather, according to the church, which offers an overnight refuge every night during the winter.

Every day of the week, we open at 6 p.m. We offer dinner, and everyone in the neighborhood is welcome. According to Kayla Acosta, a staff member at the Warming Shelter of Franklin County, “Occasionally people will bring home-cooked meals and we have a couple of restaurants that will donate food as well.”

According to Acosta, the Franklin County Warming Shelter normally hosts 10–14 guests each night, but because of the cold temperatures and power outages, staff anticipates hosting 5–10 more clients over the following few nights.

A few individuals have contacted Pastor Bryan to inform him that they will be receiving transportation. “There will likely be some people who don’t usually stay here, but they’re coming tonight because they don’t have power,” she said.

According to Acosta, the largest demand for donations among shelter visitors in this type of climate is for winter clothing.

Before the scorching hands, there must be coats, gloves, hats, scarves, and socks. They have foot warmers and super warmers since they move very quickly, which is a demand that has undoubtedly grown in this temperature, she said.

The work of the shelter is made possible by numerous volunteers in addition to the six nighttime staff members. According to Acosta, the shelter’s continued existence is a result of the community’s overwhelming support, even in difficult circumstances.

“People are aware of others who are in greater need even if they may be dealing with their own problems and lack authority. These are people without homes, even though you may not have electricity in yours. Therefore, they are nevertheless prepared to donate what they have in order to assist those who are in more dire need,” Acosta stated.

According to Acosta, depending on the March weather, the shelter will be open until the end of February or early March.

Volunteers said that the department had responded to 35 fire calls that day.