With temperatures expected to drop, volunteers have mobilized to make available a cold weather shelter to provide a safe and warm place for those affected by the freezing temperatures.

Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady’s Island Drive (map) will be open from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. Friday, January 19, and Saturday, January 20. The shelter may remain open Sunday evening depending on weather conditions. The church will also provide showers, dinner, and breakfast.

All families or individuals who need a warm place to stay are welcome.

Sea Island Presbyterian has had overwhelming support and does not currently need volunteers or supplies.

Please note that weapons, alcohol, smoking, and pets will not be permitted. Service animals are allowed.

For more information, please reach out directly to Sea Island Presbyterian Church via John Murrie at usconmymind@gmail.com.

“It is very important that we, as a community, spread the word as quickly as possible,” said Fred Leyda, Director of the Beaufort County Human Services Department. “The folks who most need this support may not have access to social media and will be relying on word of mouth to learn about these critical and time-sensitive resources. Cold temperatures can be life-threatening for folks without shelter or heat. We are so grateful that our community has stepped up to the plate to ensure everyone remains safe and healthy.”

As the temperatures plummet, please remember to check on elderly neighbors and families with young children. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of an individual exposed to dangerously cold temperatures, please reach out to local first responders.

Remember to bring your pets inside--if you are cold, they are too! If they are unable to come inside, please make sure they have a warm, covered shelter with lots of blankets. Also, make sure they have access to food and water.

Ana Ramirez, the Program Coordinator for the Beaufort County Human Services Department, has been working with community leaders and organizations through the Residential Empowerment Coalition (REC), a Together for Beaufort County initiative focused on empowering our unsheltered neighbors with resources. Meetings are open to the public.