LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The city of Little Rock and nonprofit The Van are coming together, despite their previous splitting, to help those who may not have a roof over their head.
According to Little Rock’s Communication Director, Aaron Sadler, for any winter weather event deemed dangerous to the safety of unsheltered individuals, the warming shelter will open.
“The city of Little Rock has a responsibility to open warming shelters in events like this,” Sadler said.
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As temperatures get closer to zero, the more dangerous it can become for anyone, but especially for those without a home.
City officials say anyone who needs a warm space and meal is welcome at their shelters.
“Anyone who comes in will be accepted,” Sadler said.
According to Sadler, the shelter is a full wrap-around service as it’s run by the city’s chief homelessness officer, the Little Rock Police Department, local animal service, EMTs, volunteers, and community organizations like The Van who help provide transportation.
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UAMS Dr. Robert Hopkins said it warms his heart to know the city is providing these services because everyone needs a place to stay safe during the winter.
“The most important thing is for people to recognize that cold or hot temperatures can be a threat to any of us,” Hopkins said.
Hopkins said trouble with hypothermia can begin when temperatures are in the 40s and 50s if outside for long periods, or when mixed with rain or wet conditions.
“If you’re shivering that’s a sign that you need to get into some place that you can get warmed up,” Hopkins said. “If you’re outside and you’re shivering and you’re cold and your shivering stops that’s a real red flag.”
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Hopkins recommends wearing multiple layers of loose clothing as it holds in more heat and are water-resistant on the outside.
Also, if you do become wet from rain or snow, try to change into dry clothes.
Most importantly if you’re cold, don’t jump in a boiling hot shower. Start at lukewarm and work your way up as drastic temperature changes can be dangerous.
City officials told KARK 4 News that the warming shelter at the Dunbar Community Center will be open the rest of the week from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m., with a possibility of transitioning to a 24-hour shelter if snow and ice become present.