Warming centers available across Michiana as winter cold intensifies

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With persistent cold temperatures and heavy gripping Michiana this December, residents who need a place to warm up have several options available.

Warming centers can provide short-term relief — whether for a few hours during the day or overnight.

One place many people may not immediately think of is the library.

“What we find is that people don’t necessarily think of the library as the place that they can go,” said Daniel Lichty, communications manager for the St. Joseph County Public Library.

The St. Joseph County Public Library is designated by the county as a warming center and is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. The library offers couches, free Wi-Fi and computer access to the public.

Lichty said the library often sees families come in during extreme weather, especially when schools close or switch to e-learning days.

“If it’s too cold out there and schools close, and maybe their kids are having an e-learning day, if your power goes out, we see parents bring their kids in,” Lichty said. “It’s still a safe place to be so that they can get their schoolwork done.”

For those who need overnight shelter or longer-term assistance, additional warming centers and resources can be found through Indiana 211. Residents can call 211 or visit the organization’s website to search for shelters by zip code.

The service provides details on shelter requirements and allows users to filter options by age and gender, making it easier to find a safe and warm place during severe winter weather.

For a full list of open warming centers, click here