City Opens Warming Center Due To Extreme Cold Weather

NEW LONDON, CT — With the forecast calling for low temperatures in the teens, the city announced its plan for helping to keep people safe from the cold.

The city opened a warming center for those in need during the day, 8:30 to 3:30 at the Senior Citizen’s Center at 120 Broad St. After those hours, men and women in need should go to the Homeless Hospitality Center, at 325 Huntington St. And for families, the Covenant Shelter, 42 Jay St.

Mayor Michael Passero said any resident that needs help during the severe, arctic cold weather, should call 911 in an emergency or (860) 447-5269, the police and fire dispatch line for routine requests for assistance.

Passero said the city police and fire departments "will also be alert, vigilant and actively looking for people at risk and they will assist those in need to our shelter resources."

"This plan will remain in effect during this dangerous cold weather event. Our community is committed to ensuring our residents are safe and warm and we will employ additional resources should it be necessary during this cold weather period," Passero said.

The mayor is responding to Gov. Ned Lamont's cold weather protocol announced Wednesday as a result of the dangerous forecasted bitter cold overnight wind chill temperatures Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. The current protocol activation will be in effect from 6 pm today Wednesday, December 18 until 9 am Saturday, December 21.

Police also provide tips on how to stay warm and help others who may be in need.

State officials and agencies along with the United Way “2-1-1” the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, and other service partners are implementing the severe cold weather protocol to ensure adequate shelter space during the upcoming severe cold weather, Passero noted.