The city activates warming centers when temperatures go into the 30s. The goal is so people can use the them for shelter, the bathroom or as charging centers.
SAN ANTONIO — Warming centers are now activated across the city of San Antonio. Open during the day, they’re meant to be an escape from the cold for individuals and families.
“They’re open for anybody in the community to come in, during the city hours,” said Roland Martinez, Public Relations Manager for San Antonio’s department of human services. “You can just escape the cold weather and just be relaxed inside.”
The city activates warming centers when the temperatures go into the 30s. The goal is so people can use the warming centers for shelter, the bathroom or as charging centers.
“Of course because of these conditions, there may be some individuals, or families that don’t the means at home to keep warm,” Martinez said. “So get here at one of the sites, one of the warming centers to take a break.”
Public libraries, community centers and senior centers are just some of the options people can go to for warmth. According to the department of human services, senior centers have extended hours this week because of the cold.
The Northeast Senior Center is one of over 50 options on the list of warming centers
Gay Izdepski is a regular there, and believes it makes perfect sense.
“There’s plenty of space,” she said. “I mean the cafeteria alone probably holds two thousand people, I don’t know, but definitely necessary at this time.”
For a map of places of warming centers and the hours, click HERE.