A winter storm in San Antonio has driven hundreds to seek refuge in warming centers for shelter and essentials. Here’s what the Salvation Army is asking for.
SAN ANTONIO — Hundreds of people turned to warming and resilience centers across San Antonio during a winter storm this weekend as freezing temperatures pushed many to seek shelter, food and basic necessities.
City officials say those resources will remain available overnight and Tuesday as another round of freezing temperatures moves in. The National Weather Service extended its Extreme Cold Warning for our area to 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Over the weekend, groups like the Salvation Army were on the ground providing hot food, coffee and supplies to people in need. Orlando Garza, who is with the organization, said crews continued showing up despite the cold.
“It’s a little colder than it was yesterday,” Garza said Monday.
Dozens of people sought shelter, blankets and meals as temperatures dropped below freezing, and with the cold expected to linger, outreach efforts are continuing. Garza said the Salvation Army is currently in need of blanket and jacket donations, particularly in medium, large and extra-large sizes.
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones told KENS 5 on Monday morning that about 400 people used city facilities to escape the cold over the weekend.
According to the City of San Antonio, temporary overnight shelter will remain available Monday and Tuesday nights at previously used locations. In addition, Corazon SA will provide space for up to 100 people at Travis Park Church on both nights, bringing the total overnight capacity to about 600.
City officials said resilience hubs will return to their normal operating hours and will not remain open overnight.
Across Bexar County, warming facilities closed Monday at noon. Officials said more than a dozen people who used those facilities were provided information on how to access additional resources.
With cold weather continuing, the Salvation Army says it is prepared to stay active in the community longer than originally expected, offering food and warmth to those who need it.
“We’re here to help others,” Garza said.
Anyone interested in donating coats or blankets can drop them off at the Salvation Army’s downtown location at 512 W. Elmira St.