Ft. wayne to open shelters Sunday; warming stations to open Monday

The City of Fort Wayne issued the following news release this afternoon:

January 3, 2014 – The City of Fort Wayne today announced it’s preparing for the potential for a significant snow event beginning Sunday and dangerous cold temperatures.

In anticipation for the possibility of severe weather, two shelters will open beginning at Noon on Sunday, Jan. 5 to provide a place for individuals in need of shelter. The shelters would remain open until further notice. Plans could change as needed.
Shelter locations:*Salvation Army, 2901 N. Clinton St.
*Public Safety Academy, 7602 Patriot Crossing

In addition, the City’s Parks & Recreation Department will open four warming stations beginning on Monday, Jan. 6 for individuals in need of a location to stay warm for a shorter period of time. It’s expected the warming stations will be open through Tuesday. Plans could change as needed.

Warming station locations:
*Community Center, 233 W. Main St., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
*Jennings Center, 1330 McCulloch St., Noon-8 p.m.
*Weisser Center, 802 Eckart St., Noon-8 p.m.
*Cooper Center, 2300 Clinton/Lafayette streets, Noon-8 p.m.

“We’re taking a proactive approach to meet the needs of citizens in our community,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “I appreciate the teamwork and partnerships as we come together to respond to a possible major winter storm. I encourage all citizens to be safe and be sure to check on friends and neighbors as we anticipate a lot of snow and very cold temperatures.”

The City’s Police, Fire, and Public Works departments are all prepared with full personnel in position to respond accordingly to any potential weather emergencies.