In Jacksonville, as cold weather persists, the Highway 69 Mission and Central Baptist Church offer warmth and shelter. Volunteers are prepared to aid those in need.
JACKSONVILLE, Texas — In Jacksonville, two warming centers are doing what they can to provide a safe space for those in need.
The Highway 69 Mission and Central Baptist Church are taking in anyone in need of help and a place to rest as the cold continues throughout the night. With temperatures continuing to drop, they are ready with volunteers to handle as many people as needed coming through the doors.
“We opened because, like back in 2021, we opened up the church as a warming center, and it was — I don’t know — it’s just a blessing for us,” said Central Baptist Church Family Pastor Coby Duren. “I think it was a blessing for the community. We’re good to go all through the night, so even if people need to stay the night, we’ve got, I think, like 50 air mattresses and different rooms that people can stay in, and everything’s warm. So they’re more than welcome to come.”
Donald Rawls said he’s enjoyed being at the church, saying he’s thankful for the food and other provision.
Those interested in volunteering with Central Baptist Church can contact them through their Facebook page.