ROANOKE, VA. (WFXR) – The Belmont Presbyterian Church on the corner of Murray Ave. and 9th St. in Downtown Roanoke has been opening its doors all week to keep its neighbors warm during these freezing temperatures.
Organizers say that this is the first time they’re hosting a warming center, after its successful cooling center over the summer. The church is also working alongside the Presbyterian Community Center to pass out emergency bags with foods, gloves and other winter gear.
“So we just want to be in a place where people can come in and get warm and hang out, get a little bit to eat, you know, and we’ll have some other supplies and things to give away later in the week,” said Todd Atkins, the pastor at Belmont Presbyterian.
Pastor Atkins says everyone is welcome into the church, even those with pets! Besides the church being a place to escape the cold, Pastor Atkins says they will also be making pancakes, coffee, and hot chocolate for everyone to enjoy.
The church will be open for everyone Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 9 am and open all day. And, as we brace for the rest of this winter season, the church says it will host more centers as needed.