Local Senior Center Staying Open Late to Offer Heat Relief to Anyone

will stay open late Tuesday evening to offer air conditioned relief from the heat to anyone who may need it. Center Director Susan Shaprio say the facility will stay open until 7 or 8 p.m. depending on demand.

Shaprio says the center stays open late during every heat wave to offer those without air conditioning a place to go during the hottest parts day and until temperatures start to subside in the evening. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory until 8 p.m. Tuesday indicating the heat index could reach 105 degrees.

The center director says that in the past she has even sent staff members out to bring in people they may be aware of who need a place to cool off but who won't seek help on their own. She tells Patch that she was not aware of anyone in that situation at the moment.

If you know an older person who may be reluctant to reach out for help within the center's service area, let them know that there is an option for getting out of the heat. Shaprio encourages anyone who may need the center as a cool place to escape the early evening heat to call in advance. The number is (610) 688-6246.