With freezing temperatures looming, Corpus Christi city officials have announced the opening of a temporary Cold Weather Refuge Center to provide residents with a safe and warm place to stay.
Refuge Center Details
In response to the Freeze Watch and as a precautionary measure, the city will open the Cold Weather Refuge Center at the Corpus Christi Gym at 3202 Cabaniss Parkway. The center will operate continuously from 6:00 p.m. on January 10 until 9:00 a.m. on January 11.
Robert Gonzales, the Public Information Manager for the City of Corpus Christi, shared, “Due to the Freeze Watch and out of an abundance of caution, the city will open a Cold Weather Refuge Center at the Corpus Christi Gym.”
The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) will offer free transportation to and from the refuge to further support the community. Gonzales added, “The RTA will provide free transportation to and from the facility.”
Community Shelters Facing Overwhelming Demand
The decision to open the refuge came after the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission issued a public plea for help. The shelter revealed that it was overwhelmed by the number of people seeking assistance and was struggling to meet the demand.
In a social media post shared late Thursday night, the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission highlighted their urgent need for additional resources, stating that they expected to house another 300 individuals overnight.
Chaplain Tina Malone expressed the gravity of the situation: “I have never seen it this bad. We don’t have enough to care for those we take in, but we are so thankful for the items we have received from the community.”
How You Can Help
As the freezing temperatures approach, the Cold Weather Refuge Center and the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission are vital lifelines for vulnerable residents. The city encourages community members to donate essential items like blankets, warm clothing, and non-perishable food to support these efforts.