Warming centers open soon in northeast Kansas for winter weather

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Warming centers in Topeka and Emporia are getting ready to open to provide people with shelter this weekend from projected winter weather.

Areas in northeast Kansas are in a Winter Storm Watch as of Thursday, Jan. 2. The Topeka Rescue Mission (TRM) announced it will open its warning centers this weekend to the public. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, warming centers at TRM and Fellowship Hi-Crest will open their doors for people "seeking refuge from the extreme cold elements". At 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 4, True Vine Missionary Baptist will open as a warming shelter.

The TRM said other sites will open warming shelters as needed.

“This effort is an opportunity, to not only saves lives, but also show those who feel unworthy,
they matter and that we are here ready to provide them the first step towards transforming their
lives,” said La Manda Broyles, TRM executive director said. "With this huge effort combining
compassion and a logical approach comes the crucial need for a variety of resources from
volunteers to snacks to cleaning supplies and more."

The Extreme Weather Taskforce works with TRM to open and maintain the warming centers, according to TRM. These organizations work to ensure no one has to face critical safety hazards that come with harsh winter weather. Warming centers are equipped with a safe, welcoming environment with essential resources.

TRM welcomes volunteers to help out at the warming centers. To volunteer, click here. To help TRM warming shelters with a financial donation, click here. If you would like to donate items, the rescue mission will accept items like snacks, water, plantes, hygiene items and cleaning supplies. Those items can be delivered from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to 401 NW Norris St. and all other times to 601 NW Harrison St. on the west side of the building.

In Emporia, several warming centers will be open for individuals in need of shelter during the severe cold temperatures. The City of Emporia posted on social media the following areas are open as warming shelters:

• Emporia Police Department (518 Mechanic St.): The entryway is open 24/7 to those in need of shelter from severe cold temperatures. The lobby is closed due to construction. Pets welcome if controlled by the owner.
• Lyon County Sheriff's Office (425 Mechanic St.): Lobby open 24/7 to those in need of shelter from severe cold temperatures. Pets welcome if controlled by the owner.
• Emporia Public Library (110 E 6th Ave.): Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
• First Congregational Church (326 W 12th Ave.): Open 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.Monday thru Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Pets welcome if controlled by owner.
• First United Methodist Church (823 Merchant St.): Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday (pending unforeseen circumstances). Pets are not allowed.
• Twelfth Avenue Baptist Church (2023 W 12th Ave.), West Building: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Thursday (Availability contingent upon regular events). Pets not allowed.

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