As the cold weather approaches next week, it becomes increasingly essential for residents needing a warm shelter to know their options. Billy Delgado, the Emergency Management Coordinator, emphasizes the necessity of providing warming centers for the safety of those who might struggle to stay warm during this period. Delgado underscores Corpus Christi’s commitment to ensuring residents remain warm during cold spells and cool during heatwaves, highlighting the city’s role in public welfare.
Delgado notes that the city plans to open up to 15 different warming centers across Corpus Christi. Specific locations like the Ben Garza Gym, Hopkins Library, and McDonald’s Library will be available on Monday, expanding to all libraries, senior centers, and the Ben Garza Gym from Tuesday, operating between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Similarly, due to the concurrent livestock events, Nueces County Judge Connie Scott points out that the county is also prepared to offer a warm refuge at a different location than in previous years. The designated warming center for the county will be the Nueces County Community Center in Robstown. Scott assures that transportation to this facility will be provided by RTA buses, with law enforcement present at night and office staff during the day for safety and assistance.
Scott emphasizes the importance of offering this service to Nueces County residents, reflecting on the community’s responsibility to care for each other, mainly since residents in South Texas are not accustomed to such cold weather.
In addition to transportation to the community center in Robstown, RTA will also provide free rides to and from city warming centers. The warming centers opening on Monday include Ben Garza Gym, Owen R. Hopkins Library, and Ben F. McDonald Library. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about additional warming centers that will be operational on Tuesday and Wednesday.
This coordinated effort by city and county officials to open warming centers is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of residents during the upcoming cold weather. It reflects a community-wide commitment to supporting those in need, particularly during challenging weather conditions. The availability of these centers and accessible transportation options is an essential service for residents who might otherwise struggle to find a warm place during this time. As the cold weather looms, the city and county’s proactive measures demonstrate their dedication to public safety and community welfare.