PICKAWAY COUNTY, Ohio — As winter weather brings colder temperatures to the region, a warming center is open in Pickaway County to provide shelter for residents in need during extreme cold conditions.
Organizers say the warming center will open on nights when overnight temperatures are expected to fall into the single digits, based on forecasts from the Weather Channel app. The center will operate from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., with a midnight cutoff, meaning the facility will close if no patrons arrive by midnight. Hours may be adjusted depending on community need.
The initiative is rooted in compassion and community support, with organizers emphasizing that the center is meant to provide not only physical warmth, but also encouragement and care for those facing hardship during the winter months.
Community members are encouraged to get involved by volunteering, donating resources, or helping spread the word. Donations can be made online at vineyardcircleville.com/give. Updates regarding openings and operational changes will be shared through the Vineyard website and Facebook page.
Along with this warming center, the Pickaway County sheriff’s office is offering its Jail lobby available for those who need to stay in a warm place during the freezing temperatures.
Organizers say partnerships with local residents will be key to ensuring the warming center can continue to serve those most vulnerable during periods of extreme cold.
