The Golden Triangle Homeless Coalition is booking hotel rooms for homeless Lowndes County residents in response to a severe cold snap coming later this week.
The National Weather Service reports that temperatures will continue to drop throughout the week and could run as low as 11 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday evening and Friday morning.
The coalition will have rooms at the Red Roof Inn and Heritage Inn at 510 and 1209 Hwy. 45 N. For non-Lowndes residents, the coalition will help to contact family or friends to assist them or provide rides to the Salvation Army warming shelter in Tupelo, president Susan Garton said.
“We’re going to get as many (rooms) as they let us book,” Garton said. “Money is not the issue at this point because I would rather spend money and then make up the loss. I would rather find a way to make up for a loss than have somebody with frostbite or, God forbid, pass away on the streets.”
Garton also said the local warming shelter at the Columbus Salvation Army building at 2219 Main St. is not open at this time but could if the weather worsens with snow or sleet.
Starkville Strong Director Brandi Herrington said the nonprofit is working to bring people in need to shelter locations in Jackson and Tupelo.
“We are helping people get to those places,” she said.
The City of Columbus’ warming shelter at the Propst Park is undergoing renovations and will not be opened, Mayor Keith Gaskin said.
“Homelessness is a serious issue in our area and must be a priority,” Gaskin wrote in a text message. “We are currently working with the GT Homeless Coalition to establish a permanent warming and cooling station in the city. Until this occurs, we need volunteers to help us identify appropriate locations for those who find themselves in need during low and high temperatures which can cause serious illnesses and death.”
Reid Nevins, Lowndes County agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, told The Dispatch residents can prepare for the coming cold snap by dripping their faucets to keep pipes from freezing and opening cabinets and bedroom doors to keep circulation flowing throughout the home. He also recommends placing styrofoam wrapping over any exposed pipes on the house’s exterior to prevent freezing.
Nevins added that residents should stock up on essential items, like propane for gas stoves and lamps, in the event of a power outage and blankets for any outdoor animals like cows, horses and pigs. He suggests bringing pets inside as temperatures begin to dip below freezing.
“Have plenty of propane gas where you at least can cook and a space heater, but you have to be real careful with them,” Nevins said. “Have some of those on hand.”
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