Crossroads Expands Warming Center Capacity

With a polar vortex bringing high wind and dangerously low temperatures to Rhode Island this week, Crossroads expanded its 24/7 warming center capacity at 160 Broad Street in Providence in order to help keep people safe.

“A record number of about 650 people are currently staying outside,” said Crossroads President and CEO Michelle Wilcox, “and with temperatures like these, it’s life-threatening. That’s why, in addition to our five shelter programs statewide, Crossroads also serves as a warming center during weather extremes.”

According to Wilcox, Crossroads can accommodate up to 35 people a night in their 24/7 Community Room. In addition to a hot shower, a meal and a warm place to come in out of the cold, Crossroads also encourages people to meet with one of our case managers to talk about longer term solutions for ending their homelessness.

“Our Community Room has been at capacity for most of this week, but we won’t turn anyone away,” said Wilcox. “On Wednesday night, for instance, we created additional warming center capacity in our dining room where we can provide an additional 25 people with a safe place to stay.”

If you know someone who is currently staying outside, please urge them to go to Crossroads at 160 Broad Street in Providence. For a full list of the state’s warming centers visit RIEMA, the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency website.