Warming Centers During the Cold Snap

A group of area churches, along with support from the city, county and public donations, are funding area warming center for the regions homeless and others in need during the cold snap. Reportedly area shelters are full but the Freedom Warming Centers offers those in need a warm place to sleep, a hot meal, and clothing. First Presbyterian Church in Santa Barbara, a new location in Isla Vista the Korean Methodist Church along with the Good Samaritan Shelter in Santa Maria and Bridgehouse in Lompoc are pitching in to accommodate the increased need for services given the inclement weather. Organizers say they’re in need of clothing, especially outerwear, for the homeless along with socks and tax deductible cash donations which can be made thru the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara. In a little more than a week the Freedom Warming Center has served almost 800 people in need. Organizers say those affected by unfortunate economic circumstances along with veterans, foster kids and the mentally challenged are a large part of the group they serve. The warming centers will be open till Wednesday when the temperatures are expected to rise.