NORTHWEST ARKANSAS/RIVER VALLEY (KFSM) — As temperatures continue to drop, those at the Salvation Army are opening warming centers to provide refuge for those in need.
The warming centers will be open in Bentonville, Fayetteville and Fort Smith any time temperatures are below 39 degrees. They will remain open during daytime hours when temperatures don’t rise by nearly 25 degrees.
Those of the Salvation Army say they strive to make the centers a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Anyone who seeks assistance at the centers must not be inebriated. Also, because families, women and children are assisted there, sex offenders clearly aren’t welcome, explained Maj. Johnny Poff, corps officers of the Fort Smith Salvation Army.
For those in need, the centers not only provide shelter, but also necessities including cots, blankets and coats.
To make this happen, those at the Salvation Army rely on donations from the public. Everyone is encouraged to help.