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Published on December 20, 2024
Hillsborough County Activates Cold Weather Shelters as Temperatures Drop, Urges Community to Seek Warmth with Family FirstSource: Google Street View

As chilly gusts sweep through Hillsborough County this Saturday, the local government and charitable organizations are gearing up to help those without a warm place to stay. The cold weather shelters program is being activated to address the needs of the homeless and people residing in homes lacking sufficient heating as temperatures are forecasted to plunge to the 40-degree mark, or even lower with wind chill factors kicking in, as noted on the Hillsborough County's website.

There's an expectation for high demand at the shelters which boast limited space, warning promptly comes that residents in need should try turning to friends and loved ones for respite before resorting to these shelters community helpers are bracing for an influx and thus, coordinative efforts with various entities offer some solace to adults without a warm respite, the cold can be more than just uncomfortable – it's a health hazard, especially for the most vulnerable populations. The listed shelters will open their doors from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. tomorrow, but spots might fill up before the closing hour, hence, the camp early mentality might be warranted.

A number of Hillsborough County's venues are joining forces to provide sanctuary from the bitter cold. The Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park and Hyde Park United Methodist Church at The Portico, which is also flagged as the preferred media location, are set to welcome adults seeking shelter, alongside Tampa Bay Mission of Hope and Amazing Love Ministries. These places are pivoting to offer some warmth and security in the face of dropping temperatures.

One important point for families to remember is that hotel vouchers are being distributed by Metropolitan Ministries, though these are strictly limited and handed out on a first-come, first-served basis and they are available only for families with minor children, adding a layer of complicacy in a situation already quite dire, it requires pre-registration which could be done by calling (813) 209-1176 until 5 p.m. today, the expectation here is to accommodate those who cannot haul their kids to a congregate setting, eyeing to provide a semblance of stability in uncertain climes.

Additional organizations with the resources to assist during these cold snaps are encouraged to participate by reaching out to Israel Segarra, Chief Buyer of the Procurement Services Department, at [email protected].

Tampa-Community & Society