According to Laredo Fire Chief Guillermo Heard, who is also the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator, the City of Laredo and four NGOs – Catholic Charities, Bethany House, Holding Institute, and Casa Misericordia – are preparing efforts to provide cold weather shelter in response to anticipated extreme drops in temperatures over the next several days.
“We have worked with those entities to establish winter preparation plans for weather events such as this. Additionally, the City is offering 10 temporary warming centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16 at Recreation Centers and Public Library branches After 5 p.m. those requiring shelter can go to the Haynes Recreation Center at 2102 Clark’s Crossing Dr. until 10:00 p.m.,” Heard said.
“Our plan is fluid and can address the volume of those seeking shelter. We have the ability to move resources from one rec center to another to make that happen. If it is not prudent to keep a 20,000 square foot rec center open overnight, we can issue vouchers to motels to accommodate families. Calls from the elderly population to 311 are a high priority. 311 calls can be made 24/7 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.,” he continued.
“We will open the door to anyone who needs help. Our heating systems are up to date. We have backup generators. We have enough beds and blankets and warm food for about 200 who seek daytime shelter as well as for the 40 to 50 we can accommodate for night stays,” said Rebecca Solloa, executive director of Catholic Charities. “My direct number is (210) 323-5784,” she added.
Bethany House at 817 Hidalgo is asking for donations of blankets, hoodies, beanies, scarves, gloves, socks, and underwear. The facility is prepared to accommodate men, women, and children with cots and meals. Additionally, the shelter is offering coats and blankets to individuals who do not wish to come in from the cold.
“Cold or not, we are prepared to take in any victim of abuse, male or female, whether it be domestic, sexual, or psychological abuse – 24/7, 365 days a year. In advance of this weather, we have stocked extra water, flashlights, and food,” said Sister Rosemary Welsh of Casa Misericordia.
For additional information, contact 3-1-1 or visit www.cityoflaredo.com.
