As Memphis braces for a frigid plunge into below-freezing temperatures, the Hospitality Hub is gearing up to offer a reprieve from the cold at the First Baptist Church starting tonight. This emergency response, functioning as a warming center, is set to open its doors on 200 East Parkway North at 10 p.m. and will "remain open until further notice," according to a report by Action News 5.
The First Baptist Church location, on the Northeast corner of Poplar and East Parkway, is welcoming all individuals in need – be they single women, single men, families, or couples. Provisions such as sack meals and blankets are set to be distributed "while supplies last," as noted in WREG's coverage of the initiative. In an effort to ensure accessibility, Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) is offering transportation assistance to the warming center. Those in need of this service can initiate a request by calling 901-486-0939 beginning at 9:30 p.m.
According to FOX13 Memphis, guests seeking shelter will be asked to check in upon their arrival at the warming center. However, the Hospitality Hub has made it clear that displaying an ID is not a requirement for entry, thus eliminating potential barriers for those who might be undocumented or lack identification.
