Warming centers open with frigid conditions on the way

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — With record-low temperatures expected this weekend, Rhode Island is making an effort to keep all residents warm.

Gov. Dan McKee tweeted that the Department of Housing has implemented its emergency weather policy to give more support to homeless shelters.

Anyone who needs temporary shelter from the cold can also find it at community centers, libraries, and public safety buildings across the state.

In Pawtucket, the building at 1139 Main Street will be open 24 hours through Monday night. Brother Gary Dantzler with Black Lives Matter Rhode Island will be working with volunteers to offer a warm place for people to stay as well as toiletries, meals and other services to those who need them.

One volunteer told 12 News they are looking for warm clothing for people staying there. If you have clothing or items to donate, you can drop them off at the warming site.

The Cranston Street Armory, Crossroads and the Emmanuel House in Providence will all also be open 24 hours.

A full list of available warming centers in every Rhode Island city and town is available on the Emergency Management Agency’s website.

Over the border in Massachusetts, Fall River officials also announced that shelters and warming centers will be available in their city.

The First Step Inn, located at 134 Durfee St. within the Spindle City Church, said it’s prepared to accommodate anyone seeking shelter from the cold. Those seeking placement overnight should call (508) 679-8001 or (508) 974-9972.

A drop-in warming center will also be available at Christ the Rock Church at 414 Rock St. from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Warming stations will also be available Friday and Saturday in the lobby of YMCA branches in Wareham, New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fall River, and Swansea.

The Pinpoint Weather 12 Team says a Wild Chill Warning will be in effect for our whole area from 10 a.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Saturday. Wind chills will likely range from -20 to -30, and actual air temperatures will drop to -4 by dawn on Saturday, breaking a 105-year-old record for Feb. 4.

Anyone who needs assistance with heating payments, access to food or other necessities, call the United Way hotline at 211.