As Cleveland prepares to weather a spell of severe cold, Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, located at 11115 Kinsman Road, is set to open its doors as a seasonal shelter. Starting Sunday evening at 6:00 p.m., the church will provide refuge to adults in need of shelter during the icy days ahead. The facility will operate from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. daily and is equipped to accommodate up to 35 individuals nightly on a first-come, first-served basis. Those seeking entrance to the shelter should use the door on the back left side of the building, as detailed in a recent announcement by Cuyahoga County's official release.
In response to the forecasted frigid temperatures, District 7 County Councilwoman Yvonne M. Conwell emphasized the urgency to open the seasonal shelter swiftly. "As we are anticipating temperatures dipping into the negatives in the forthcoming days, it was paramount that this seasonal shelter is open as soon as possible," Conwell stated through Cuyahoga County's official website. Councilwoman Conwell acknowledged the collective effort that made this initiative possible, including the Metanoia Project's operational support, Pastor Gates's hospitable gesture, Ward 4 Councilwoman Deborah Gray's prompt resident communication, and the County's Department of Health and Human Services.
The significance of seasonal shelters, especially in extreme weather conditions, is not lost on Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. "Seasonal shelters are a vital resource for our unhoused population as they provide safety, warmth, and dignity," he noted, according to Cuyahoga County. Ronayne praised the strength of partnership and collaboration among local leaders and organizations in addressing the needs of those without homes. Councilwoman Gray echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for the shelter's availability during the potentially hazardous weather.
For individuals with questions regarding the shelter or who to seek assistance, a contact number has been provided: 216-338-0181.
