Warming Center to Open in Salem

Red Cross responds to need for emergency sheltering of vulnerable

Salem, OR December 9, 2009 — Volunteers with the Willamette Chapter of the American Red Cross are opening a Warming Center in Salem tonight to help shelter people from the cold weather. The site for the Warming Center will be at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall located at 630 Hood St NE in Salem. Hours of operation will be 9:00 pm to 7:00 am tonight and 7:00 pm to 7:00 am on Thursday and Friday. Weekend hours to be determined based on need.

People who need to stay at the Center will be offered warm beverages and bread each evening and breakfast each morning. Cots and blankets along with basic hygiene items will also be available.

Dogs and cats will be accepted with their owners, however must be crated (provided at shelter) for the duration of their stay, with the exception of exercise breaks outside the Center. Limited food and water for the pets will be provided.

Public calls about the Center may be made to the Red Cross Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. After hours calls should be made to 503-881-2874. Media inquires should be made to Margaret A. Sanner at 503-508-0688.