Allen County shelters expand as outages continue after winter storm
SCOTTSVILLE, Ky. (WNKY) – Emergency warming shelters in Allen County have expanded operations as families continue to deal with power and water outages following this week’s winter storm.
Victory Hill Dream Center, which operates a seasonal warming shelter in Scottsville, opened an additional shelter at Scottsville Fire Station Two after the number of people seeking help outgrew the space at the Dream Center.
“We essentially, the first night had around 32 people staying with us, including our volunteers,” said Mason Harris, lead pastor at Victory Hill Church. He said county emergency officials and county judge-executive Dennis Harper approved the use of Fire Station Two, so the operation could serve more people.
Volunteers say many families arriving at the shelters are dealing with extended outages and difficult conditions at home.
“It’s chaotic out there right now,” said volunteer Rudy Higdon. “The power is off at a lot of places. Some places don’t have water right now. So, you know, just getting people here and getting people warm, that’s pretty important.”
Despite the circumstances, volunteers say the atmosphere inside the shelters has remained positive.
“They are extremely grateful. Happy to be here. Everyone’s jolly,” said volunteer Jeremiah Anderson. “Even in rough times, we’ve just been cracking jokes, playing card games, reading books, showing each other the history of Allen County.”
The Dream Center has operated a warming shelter during winter months for several years, but Harris said the severity of this storm forced the operation to grow quickly.
“Our mission statement is to help people where they are and not leave them where they are,” Harris said.
Community organizations, churches and the Allen County school system have helped provide meals and supplies to both shelter locations.
Organizers say donations are still needed, especially snacks and bottled drinks. They are asking people to drop off supplies at the Victory Hill Dream Center so they can be delivered to the shelters in an organized way.
As power is gradually restored across the county, shelter operators say the number of guests has begun to decline, but they remain ready to help as long as outages continue.
