Chicago activates warming centers as cold temperatures arrive

Photo byNaomi AugustonUnsplash

Temperatures are dropping in Chicago as winter is preparing to roll in. Although some residents already have heat in their homes, many are trying to figure out how they will prepare for cold temperatures.

Often, people bundle up: wear two layers of clothing, a large coat, hat, scarf, and even gloves when they're outside. However, for people like homeless individuals, asylum seekers, and citizens going through financial hardships, it's not that easy. Cold winter weather adds another portion of stress to their lives.

The City of Chicago took note of temperatures dropping and activated warming centers on Nov. 21 to help those in need. These centers are located around the City but are only open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Below are a few of those centers:

*Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during extreme cold weather.

• Englewood Community Service Center
  1140 West 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60620
  312-747-0200
  
• Garfield Community Service Center
  10 South Kedzie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612
  312-746-5400
  
• Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Center
  4314 South Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60653
  312-747-2300
  
• North Area Community Service Center
  845 West Wilson Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640
  312-744-2580
  
• South Chicago Community Service Center
  8650 South Commercial Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617
  312-747-0500

• Trina Davila Community Service Center
  4312 West North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
  312-744-2014

What about after hours? If individuals need access to heat after centers close, the City of Chicago's website says, "Those seeking a warm place to go after hours can also call 3-1-1 to be connected with available services. Individuals requiring emergency overnight shelter should also call 3-1-1, visit 311.Chicago.gov or download the CHI311 app to ensure residents are aware of the City's designated warming areas."

Also, please don't forget to do wellness checks on elders in this weather.