CARBONDALE, Ill. (WSIL) -- Dozens of locals gather to answer the call to help those in the community stay warm.
The Carbondale Warming Center opened its doors to provide shelter to those in need on Monday after a round of snow and bitter cold temperatures settled in. Due to the amount of people that needed help, workers put out a call to the community asking for help to prepare the warming center.
Officials from the Carbondale Warming Center say after hours of hard work, and assistance from the community, they were able to the center ready for additional people.
Carmalita Cahill is the Executive Director of the Carbondale Warming Center. She said she is grateful the community helped out in their time of need.
"I don't want to sleep outside tonight," said Cahill. "There are some nights throughout the year that it would be nice; this is not one of them and this is not the time period. And, as stressful as it is, I can't help but sit here and feel blessed. Countless donations make this possible and all of that come from our community. Carbondale is a heart-warming community."
After all the hard work put in, and having 38 extra beds, Cahill said there were still people who needed a bed to sleep in.
"I really slept better last night, knowing that options are available for people and that is what they need," added Cahill. "If they do not want to be in the program downstairs, that is okay. This is overnight. I want you to be safe for the night."
If you would like to learn more about how you can help or about the Carbondale Warming Center you can call 314-312-2539.
