Columbus’ new warming shelter will open this weekend when temperatures are expected to drop as low as 28 degrees.
The city of Columbus and Golden Triangle Regional Homeless Coalition set up the shelter at the Farmers Market Annex, across the street from the Hitching Lot Farmers Market, late last year to give those without adequate shelter a warm place to sleep on nights when the temperature drops below freezing. The shelter is available both for the homeless or for homeowners and renters without adequate heating in their homes.
The shelter will open Saturday through Tuesday, 5 p.m.-8 a.m. Sandra DePriest, co-president of the homeless coalition, said her organization is working with Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen to provide food each of those nights. Columbus Police Department will provide security, and there will be two volunteers each night.
DePriest added the organization is also looking for donations of new pillows and blankets for the shelter, as well as games and other activities.
To deliver supplies, call Columbus Community Outreach Director Glenda Richardson at 662-364-1850.
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