With heavy rain and gusty winds bearing down, Sacramento County on Wednesday flipped the lights at the Warren E. Thornton Youth Center gym, turning it into a weather respite for people who need a dry, warm place to ride out the storm. The temporary site offers hot meals and basic hygiene, staffed by county workers and local nonprofits.
According to FOX40, the facility can support up to 85 individuals and is slated to close at 10 a.m. on Friday unless conditions force an extension. Organizers say the activation is short-term and targeted to those with immediate storm-related needs.
“This gives them an opportunity to come inside, warm their body, get hot food,” Janna Hayes, Sacramento County public information manager, told FOX40. County staff said volunteers and partner agencies will help run intake and coordinate blankets, showers and other immediate needs.
What The Center Provides
The gym is offering cots, showers, restrooms and three meals a day, as reported by KCRA. Pets are allowed but must stay in crates while inside, per county rules in Pets Allowed — In Crates by Hoodline. Staff can also connect guests with outreach teams for housing or longer-term help.
Why The County Activated The Site
The National Weather Service warned of an atmospheric river moving into the Sacramento area, bringing widespread precipitation, gusty winds and some mountain snow, prompting the county to add shelter capacity. Officials said the activation is a precaution to protect people from hypothermia, flooding and storm-related hazards. For the latest forecast and safety guidance, check the National Weather Service.
How To Get Help
People seeking space are asked to call 2-1-1 to confirm availability and get directions, as stated by 211 Sacramento. Sacramento Regional Transit has historically provided free rides to respite sites during activations, as noted by Sacramento City Express. Outreach workers urge anyone who plans to go to call ahead to check capacity and to learn about pet policies and intake times.
This activation follows similar openings earlier this season, and officials say they'll keep centers open as long as conditions require. For immediate needs, call 2-1-1 and monitor local forecasts for changing conditions.
