Cold weather resources in Columbia, Boone County
Frigid temperatures can cause dangerous conditions for Mid-Mo’s homeless.
Room at the Inn is a traveling emergency shelter organized by different churches in the Columbia area. They have 50 cots available. They are also a “damp” shelter, which means they will allow people who may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone staying at the shelter has to be at least 18 years old.
The Broadway Christian Church located at 2601 W Broadway will have the shelter until January 31. The rest of the dates are listed below:
1/3/16 – 1/31/16 – Broadway Christian Church
1/31/16 – 2/14/16 – Missouri United Methodist Church
2/14/16 – 2/21/16 – First Presbyterian Church
2/21/16 – 3/4/16 – First Baptist Church
The City of Columbia and Boone County also have warming shelters available during daytime hours. The shelters are put on by the Department of Health and Human Services. The shelters are available to the general public during normal business hours. People will have access to the public areas of the buildings like the lobbies, restrooms, and water fountains.
The warming shelters are available at the ARC (1707 West Ash St.), Armory Sports and Community Center (701 East Ash St.), Boone County Government Center (801 East Walnut), Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health & Human Services (1005 West Worley), Columbia Public Library (100 West Broadway), Salvation Army (1108 West Ash St), Salvation Army Harbor House (602 North Ann), St. Francis House (901 Rangeline).
Some signs people should look out for during cold weather to stay safe including shivering. Experts say shivering a sign you are losing body heat and its time to head inside. Long-term exposure to the cold can also cause confusion, drowsiness and exhaustion. Exposure to the cold can also lead to frostbite. Signs of frostbite include tingling and numbness and typically affects your face, nose, ears, fingers and toes.
Additionally, the Department of Public Health and Human Services offers two utility assistance programs for qualified Boone County Residents. H.E.L.P. provides one-time utility assistance to low income families with young children in the home and C.A.S.H., which provides utility assistance to low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities. For more information, please contact 573-817-6430 .
