KILLEEN, Texas — The City of Killeen announced a new initiative to collaborate with local churches for setting up warming centers in the city.
The partnership includes Liberty Christian Center, led by Pastor Rodney Gilchrist, and Charis Church (formerly Grace Christian Center), led by Pastors Patrick and Marlena Kiteley.
These churches will provide space for the warming centers and transportation services. Liberty Christian Center will open its doors on designated nights, and Charis Church will offer transportation from downtown Killeen to the center, located at 4107 Westcliff Rd.
Specific pickup locations will be announced closer to the operation of the next warming center.
Additionally, the Killeen Arts and Activities Center at 801 North 4th St. will serve as a warming center when Liberty Christian Center is unavailable due to its own events.
Killeen’s warming centers are designed for temporary cold relief and do not offer beds or showers. They operate when temperatures or wind chill are forecasted to drop below 32 degrees. Decisions to open the centers are made by 3 p.m. on the day of operation, and they run from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. Centers close if unutilized by 11:30 p.m.
The city is reaching out to other organizations, churches, and community groups willing to open their facilities and provide volunteers, water, or light snacks. Interested parties can contact the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at (254) 501-7706.