Local warming stations anticipate quite a few more people will be seeking overnight shelter this week as the temperatures tumble.
And for people who operate those centers, the time to prepare is now.
Forecasters say just 20 minutes outside in cold temperatures like this can have dangerous effects on your body. Shelters are preparing now, and so should you.
“We’ve seen varying numbers, between 60 to 80 people since we’ve opened, but we’ve very consistently been at 70 beds out of an 80-bed capacity. So we still have openings available,” said Tami Unger, Branch Director of the YMCA Allentown.
Shelters like the YMCA warming station on South 15th Street in Allentown are working with partners to make sure they have things like extra socks and hand warmers.
These are items people can leave with in the morning to stay warm outside during the frigid days ahead.
“We also have an Amazon wish list which we also have things like handwarmers on. Very simple things that we can give to the guests when they come in. So when they leave in the morning, they’re able to stay warm,” Unger said.
Remember to layer, wear a long shirt, a hoodie and your warmest coat if you are outside for long periods of time. Many shelters may be opening earlier and changes in hours can be found on websites and social media.
The branch director says it will fill the beds this week.
The shelter is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but it may open earlier if need be.
“With the cold weather coming, we work very closely with our partners to ensure there is continuity for the individuals that stay with us, so we will partner with them to find out if they’ll stay open late and we’ll open earlier as well,” said Unger.