Salinas warming center preps for frigid forecast

Winter weather is making it harder for those without shelter to stay warm. With the temperatures set to drop and winds set to blow even harder than normal, a warming center in Salinas is working to help those who are willing to follow the rules. On Monday, NewsChannel 5 found out how the center is giving the homeless a dependable option on these cold nights.

Shelter Outreach Plus is running a warming center on Lincoln Avenue in Salinas for a second year. Even though it’s in a new location, organizers said word spread quickly and they’re seeing more people coming in this time around.

From check-in to meal time, the number of homeless is different each night. But Shelter Outreach Plus said the need is always great.

“So far we’ve had more people. We’re in the 30s and I know we’ve been up in the 40s already. Capacity is 68, so we’re looking that in the next couple of days, because it’ll be really cold, to have higher numbers,” said executive director Reyes Bonilla.

Those numbers pale in comparison to the 500 to 700 the city estimates are homeless in Salinas. With below freezing temperatures in the forecast, the center said its considering options to keep people warmer longer.

“Looking into opening up an hour earlier and closing an hour after, you know 6am, so we’re looking at 7 a.m.,” Bonilla said.

Shelter Outreach Plus said it’s brought in more blankets and warm clothing, but supplies are still needed. Rules are strict and everyone must sign off on them before staying the night. Bonilla said the structured environment and a longer list of conditions is making the center more successful this year.

“I think because people know our requirements and expectations, we’ve had less problems and people have been more compliant this year,” Bonilla said.

To help the homeless, warm clothing donations are welcome at 215 Lincoln Avenue. They’re also looking for people interested in making meals.