RI Opens Shelters, Resources To Help Homeless People, Others With Frigid Temperatures

RHODE ISLAND — With a polar vortex expected to hit the state this week, Gov. Dan McKee shared information about expanded resources, including the activation of emergency winter hubs across Rhode Island to help homeless people and others in need stay warm.

"The safety of our residents, particularly those most vulnerable, is our top priority as we prepare for this intense cold," McKee said. "We are ensuring that more resources are available to provide shelter, warmth, and support to those who need it the most."

The emergency winter hubs, activated through the Municipal Homelessness Support Initiative, will provide additional, overnight capacity to help keep Rhode Islanders safe. No referral is needed to enter the hubs. Beginning Tuesday night, and extending until the end of the polar vortex, these hubs will be open at the following locations:

• Westerly: WARM Center, 56 Spruce St. — Open 24 hours during the winter months

• West Warwick: West Warwick Civic Center, 100 Factory St. — Open 24 hours through 8:00 a.m. Thursday.

"These hubs are a critical resource during this polar vortex," Secretary of Housing Deborah Goddard said. "They are temporary, emergency drop-in centers designed to provide immediate relief to individuals who might otherwise be exposed to the harsh conditions. We are committed to ensuring that these hubs are readily available to help those in need."

All winter hub operating hours will be updated on the Rhode Island Department of Housing website: Resources | Department of Housing, as they are subject to change.

In addition to these emergency hubs, beginning Tuesday and lasting until the end of the polar vortex, several existing overnight shelters are also available on a drop-in basis. These shelters include:

• Crossroads Rhode Island: 162 Broad St. Providence — Open beginning at 4:00 pm Tuesday

• Emmanuel House: 239 Public St., Providence — Open 24 hours Wednesday through Thursday

• Welcome House of South County: 8 North Road, Peace Dale — Open 24 hours

• OpenDoors: 1139 Main St., Pawtucket — Open 24 hours.

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