Duval Times

The City of Jacksonville is preparing for the incoming cold weather by activating its Phase 3 Cold Weather Emergency Plan. When temperatures reach 28 degrees or colder, the City opens its Warming Center to provide overnight shelter to residents who do not have access to adequate heat.

According to the Emergency Preparedness Division, the Warming Center will be open from 7 P.M. to 9 A.M. tonight at the Legends Center, located at 5130 Soutel Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32208. To ensure transportation for vulnerable individuals, JTA buses will be available to transport them to the center. The Legends Center will be staffed and will have water available onsite.

Residents using the warming center are advised to bring essential items such as air mattresses, blankets, pillows, or other bedding, snacks and medication, games, toys, books, and hygiene and comfort items.

In addition to the Warming Center, all libraries across the County will serve as warming centers during normal business hours. More information about available resources can be found at jaxready.com/winterweather.

Jacksonville's non-profit partners are also stepping up to provide weather shelter services to the homeless population. Some of the shelters offering assistance include City Rescue Mission, Mission House, Sulzbacher Center, and Trinity Rescue Mission.

City Rescue Mission, located at 234 W. State Street, 32202, is one of the shelters providing weather shelter services. Mission House, located at 465 11th Ave. N, Jacksonville Beach, 32250, offers overnight operations at St. Paul's by the Sea Episcopal - Parish Hall, located at 1150 5th Street N, Jacksonville Beach, 32250. Sulzbacher Center, located at 611 East Adams St., 32202, provides shelter for men, while their location at 5455 Springfield Blvd. 32208 serves women and children. Trinity Rescue Mission, located at 622 W. Union Street, 32202, is also available to offer shelter.

As the cold weather persists, it is crucial for the community to come together and ensure the well-being of all residents. The City of Jacksonville and its partners are working diligently to provide shelter and support to those in need during this freeze warning and wind chill advisory.

"We want to make sure that everyone in our community has a safe and warm place to stay during this severe weather," said a representative from the Emergency Preparedness Division.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest weather conditions and follow any alerts or instructions provided by local authorities.