Emergency Shelters Open in Response to Frigid Forecast
Emergency shelters have been opened in Barre and Burlington as a response to dangerously cold temperatures that have swept through the state. City officials in both locations have taken swift action to provide safe spaces for those in need as the frigid forecast looms ahead.
Shelter Locations and Operation Hours
In Burlington, the Miller Center at 130 Gosse Court will serve as a shelter open from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. from Monday night through Thursday morning. This low-barrier shelter, operated by the city and the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, is exclusively available to adults. Individuals can either show up at the shelter or utilize free transportation from the Community Resource Center or the Fletcher Free Library.
Meanwhile, in Barre, a shelter has been established in the basement of the Barre Auditorium since Sunday night. Operating hours are from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. through Thursday, with the facility being staffed by the Red Cross and local volunteers who will also provide meals to those seeking refuge.
Severe Weather Outlook and Shelter Capacities
The National Weather Service’s Burlington office has issued a hazardous weather outlook, predicting dangerously cold temperatures that are anticipated to persist until Thursday. Wind chills are projected to plummet to as low as 10 to 20 degrees below zero, making it imperative for individuals to seek shelter in the face of such severe conditions.
Despite previous efforts by organizations like the Committee on Temporary Shelter and Good Samaritan to offer winter warming shelters in Burlington and Montpelier, respectively, shelters across the state are currently at full capacity. The state’s motel program, typically utilized to house individuals when traditional shelters are full, has also been forced to turn people away due to a lack of available rooms this winter.
Community Response and Support
In times of crisis, it is heartening to witness communities coming together to support those in need. As temperatures plummet and shelters reach maximum occupancy, it is crucial for us all to extend a helping hand to our neighbors facing homelessness. Whether through volunteering, donating resources, or simply spreading awareness, every small effort can make a significant impact on the lives of those struggling to find warmth and safety in these harsh conditions.
Remember, a simple act of kindness can go a long way in providing comfort and support to those who need it most. Let’s stand together as a community to ensure that no one is left out in the cold during these challenging times.
