CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Colder days are ahead this winter in the Kanawha Valley and, before the worst of the frigid temperatures sets in, volunteers are being trained to staff future needed public warming stations.
On Monday, the Kanawha Valley Collective and United Way of Central West Virginia hold the next in a series of volunteer training sessions.
That training was scheduled to start at 2:30 p.m. at the United Way, 1 United Way Square, Charleston.
The volunteers will staff the Charleston warming station, located at the Salvation Army on Tennessee Avenue, when winter temperatures are predicted to drop to 15 degrees or lower taking into account wind chill.
“We have these warming stations for both individuals who are experiencing homelessness who are living on the streets as well as individuals who may be in housing without adequate heat,” said Traci Strickland, executive director of the Kanawha Valley Collective.
“This is the most basic service to people who are in our city and who are vulnerable.”
Last year, on average, about 70 people sought shelter at the warming station.
The busiest night brought in 97 people, according to Strickland.
When the warming station is open, two paramedics and two police officers work on site with volunteers.
Tasks for the volunteers include cleaning, signing people in and distributing blankets, pillows, gloves and snacks. Shifts run from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. and 4 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Those interested in attending Monday’s training session can contact Margaret O’Neal with the United Way by phone at 304-340-3503 or via email at [email protected].