Fulton County Warming Center opens Tuesday at Heartland Church

The Fulton County Warming Center comes after a Winter Contingency Plan and Cold Weather Warming Center was developed for relief to the homeless and others in need in the area during inclement weather, serving as a guide to prevent serious harm or death during the winter season.

As cold temperatures close in on the area, finding sanctuary from the frigid weather and having a warm place to sleep could mean life or death for those struggling with housing insecurity in Fulton County. 

Stepping up to the plate for once again to provide awareness and resources, thanks to Fulton County HOPE and many other volunteers in the community a warming center will be opening up Tuesday at 6 p.m. inside of the Heartland Church at 321 E. Eighth St. in Rochester. The Fulton County Warming Center comes after a Winter Contingency Plan and Cold Weather Warming Center was developed for relief to the homeless and others in need in the area during inclement weather, serving as a guide to prevent serious harm or death during the winter season. Winter Amnesty has been declared from Jan. 7-31, with additional months potentially being available in the future depending on the temperatures. 

During this winter, local men, women and children who are in need of a warm place to sleep may go to the church designated for that current month each evening between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Supper will be provided each evening, and a bagged breakfast will be sent with attendees each morning before they leave. Despite having to leave the shelter each morning by 7 a.m., individuals seeking relief from the cold during the day are encouraged to do so at places like the Fulton County Public Library and The Cross of Rochester. 

Virga Smith is Fulton County HOPE’s treasurer and has led the "HOPE for the Homeless” project that she helped start at her church. Aside from helping the homeless and her push to get a warming shelter in the community this winter, Smith also helps those struggling with poverty, many of whom are not only addicts, but also domestic abuse victims, Smith said. Spearheading efforts for the organization to help provide clothing, household items and furniture for those in need, Smith said the donations are available to anyone needing them at  St. John Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester, from Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donation drop-offs are also welcome during this time. 

Smith said although the Fulton County Warming Shelter is secure for the month of January, she hopes for more local churches to get on board with their efforts as well. Smith said they hope to continue the warming shelter until temperatures reach at least 45 degrees. While they still work out the process as things start out at the warming shelter, Smith said a breathalyzer will be at the facility to ensure that disorderly behavior is taken care of.