Bracing for a chill in the metro Atlanta air, Clayton County has proactively opened warming centers to support residents facing the below-freezing temperatures forecasted for the early part of the week. According to Clayton County's official announcement, four recreation centers, also serving as approved American Red Cross warming centers, will open their doors to provide a warm environment during regular operation hours from Monday to Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
As the mercury is expected to dip, those looking for overnight refuge can turn to Anointed Vision of Hope and the Clayton County Police Department Headquarters Community Room, both doubling as warming centers after 6 p.m. until 8:30 a.m. In an effort to assist the unhoused, organizations such as Ujimay Way and Hearts To Nourish Hope have committed to canvassing the county to help with transportation to these sites. For more information, Crisis Communication Officer Jamie Carlington can be reached at 678.614.9593.
The four locales equipped to welcome residents during the day include the Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center on Rex Road in Rex, the Jim Huie Recreation Center & Steve Lundquist Aquatic Center on Tara Boulevard in Jonesboro, the Virginia Gray Recreation Center on East Fayetteville Road in Riverdale, and the South Clayton Recreation Center on McDonough Road in Hampton. These facilities not only offer respite from the cold but also represent a concerted effort by the county to address the wellbeing of its citizens during harsh weather conditions.
For transportation assistance, residents should reach out to Anointed Vision of Hope on Webb Road in Riverdale or contact the community outreach numbers for Ujimay Way at 404.267.1853 and Hearts To Nourish Hope at 404.375.5341. Bus routes #191 and #198 are available for those seeking transport to the Clayton County Police Department Headquarters Community Room.
