Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - Two local churches are opening their doors as warming stations for individuals experiencing homelessness as cold weather approaches Calcasieu Parish. The initiative, supported by the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and various local agencies, aims to provide essential shelter during the upcoming temperature drop.

The Sulphur Christian Community Coalition (SC3), located at 501 E. Burton St. in Sulphur, will begin operations at 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 5. Water's Edge Gathering Church, situated at 2760 Power Center Parkway in Lake Charles, will follow suit, opening its doors at 9 a.m. on Monday, January 6.

Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Anthony Bartie expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting the collaborative effort between local government and charitable organizations. "The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury is proud to assist in the funding of these essential facilities during our upcoming cold weather event," Bartie said. He commended the unified approach of agencies and charities working to protect vulnerable community members.

Financial assistance for the warming stations comes from multiple sources, including the Police Jury and other local agencies.

The warming stations represent a coordinated response to protect community members during severe weather conditions, combining governmental resources with charitable outreach to serve those most in need.