As freezing temperatures move into the area, the City of Natchitoches and the Natchitoches Coalition on Homelessness are urgently seeking donations to support the operation of a warming center serving individuals experiencing homelessness.
The warming center is operating inside the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center at 660 Martin Luther King Drive and is intended to provide a safe place during below-freezing conditions expected Saturday, Jan. 24, through Tuesday, Jan. 27. Organizers say donated supplies are critical to ensuring the center can meet the needs of those seeking shelter during the cold weather.
Items currently needed include warm blankets, water, drinks, cups, plates, bowls, coffee, hot chocolate, snacks, napkins, forks and spoons. Donations will be accepted beginning Saturday at 9 a.m. at the recreation center.
In addition to supplies, volunteers are also needed to help operate the warming center, with a minimum four-hour commitment requested. Churches, Divine Nine organizations and other community groups are encouraged to support the effort through donations and volunteer assistance.
Community members interested in donating or volunteering can contact the City of Natchitoches at (318) 357-3839 or the Natchitoches Coalition on Homelessness at (318) 753-0010 for more information.
