Nighttime warming shelter opening in Asheboro

ASHEBORO — A nighttime warming shelter will open in Asheboro on dangerously cold nights this winter thanks to a collaboration of nonprofit organizations and individuals.

The no-frills shelter will operate on a limited schedule in the former Central School gymnasium at 621 Franks St. It will be open from 8 p.m.-7 a.m. on days when the weather forecast predicts that temperatures will drop to 20 degrees or lower for at least two consecutive days. 

The shelter was scheduled to open for the first time this season on Jan. 16 at 8 p.m. 

Guests will sleep on cots or on mats on the gym floor. A hot meal will be available. The shelter will provide a safe, warm refuge. Alcohol and other drugs will not be permitted. Individuals who have been drinking or using other drugs will not be allowed to stay. Those who do not abide by simple rules will be asked to leave. 

For the grassroots effort to be successful, organizers will count on contributions from the community. 

The greatest need will be for volunteers: At least two (a male and a female) for each two-hour shift. A minimum of 12-14 people will be needed to set up, break down and man the facility every time it is open — and the same 12-14 people cannot do it every day. 

Volunteer duties will be minimal: Keep an eye on things. Brew coffee. Share conversation. Or just listen. 

Since there is no source of funding for the warming shelter, donations will be essential, too: Food and supplies, including paper plates, cups, napkins or money to purchase food and supplies.

For more information, call 336-465-6432, 336-302-9022 or 336-451-4673. Donations may be made via:

- CashApp ($GraceGiven05).

- Venmo (venmo.com/u/Susan-Hunt-84).

- PayPal (www.paypal.com/paypalme/unchainedbyHisgrace).