Cold Weather Shelters Open in Bay Area and Central Florida Counties This Week

Cold Weather Shelters Open in Bay Area and Central Florida Counties

As frigid temperatures loom over the Bay Area and Central Florida this week, local officials are stepping up to ensure that vulnerable residents have a warm place to stay. Shelters are set to open across several counties, providing refuge for those in need.

Citrus County: Urgent Need for Volunteers and Donations

In Citrus County, the Cold Weather Shelter will be operational from Monday to Thursday nights, responding to forecasts of freezing temperatures. Located at Nature Coast Church, 5113 S. Suncoast Blvd. in Homosassa, the shelter is open to anyone seeking warmth. Citrus County Transit is offering free transportation to the shelter, making it accessible for all.

Officials are calling for volunteers and donations to support the shelter’s operations. Donations can be dropped off at Nature Coast Church starting Monday at 5 p.m.

Flagler County: Sheltering Tree Opens Its Doors

Flagler County is also preparing for the cold snap, with The Sheltering Tree opening its doors at the Rock Transformation Center (formerly Church on the Rock). This shelter is not only for those experiencing homelessness but also for anyone without heat in their homes.

East Side Pick-Up Locations:

• Dollar General at Publix Town Center on Market Avenue: 3:30 p.m.
• McDonald’s at Old Kings Road South and State Road 100: 4 p.m.
• Dollar Tree behind Carrabba’s: 4:30 p.m.
• Palm Coast Main Branch Library: 4:45 p.m.

West Side Pick-Up Locations:

• Dollar General at County Road 305 and Canal Avenue: 4 p.m.
• Bunnell Free Clinic, 703 Moody Boulevard: 4:30 p.m.
• Bridges United Methodist Church in Bunnell: 4:30 p.m.

The Rock Transformation Center will open at 5 p.m. and remain operational until 8 a.m. the following morning. For more information, residents can contact The Sheltering Tree at 386-437-3258.

Community Support Needed

As temperatures drop, community members are encouraged to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and those living alone. Local officials are committed to providing safe havens during this cold snap, but they need the community’s support to make it happen.

Stay tuned for updates as more counties may join the effort to provide shelter during this cold weather. Your help can make a difference in the lives of those in need.