As the winter winds ready their frigid dance across Gastonia, a coalition of local government and community organizations is stepping up to provide warmth for those in need. In collaboration with HealthNet Gaston (HNG) and Unity Baptist Church, the City of Gastonia and Gaston County are set to open a Warming Center. This initiative opens doors to its heated embrace when temperatures plummet to 32 degrees or below starting on Sunday, offering respite from the cold until March 31, 2026.
The operation hours for the center, located at Unity Baptist Church at 482 N. Myrtle School Rd., are from 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Security will be present to ensure the safety of all guests during these hours. To provide the community ample warning, the decision to activate the center is forecasted 48 hours in advance, with information disseminated through various channels, including social media accounts of the City of Gastonia, Gaston County, and HNG.
This endeavor exemplifies the power of collaboration among municipal authorities, religious congregations, and non-profit organizations, knitting a safety net reinforced by collective effort and shared concern for the well-being of the most exposed among us. Assistant Gaston County Manager Steve Eaton, highlighted the community's spirit in a statement, saying, “We are grateful to Unity Baptist Church and our community partners for opening their doors to serve those in need. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to ensuring our most vulnerable residents have access to a safe and warm place during dangerous weather conditions.”
Quentin McPhatter, Assistant City Manager of Gastonia, echoed this sentiment, affirming the collective resolve when he said, “Our collaboration with the County, local faith partners, and community nonprofits reflects what is possible when we unite around a shared mission. Together, we are dedicated to providing resources and compassion to those who need it most.” The Warming Center not only offers a heated space, water, and useful information about community resources, it's also an embodiment of the tangible care fostered within the Gastonia community.
For those eager to contribute to this lifesaving cause, the city's announcement provides clear directives. Donations such as pre-packaged food, clothing, and hygiene items are being managed by community agencies like the United Way and Gateway Gaston. Interested individuals or organizations can find more details on how to support the Warming Center by visiting the official county website.
