The City of Independence is activating the Roger T. Sermon Community Center as an Emergency Storm Assistance Center today, March 9, from noon through 7 p.m. The Center, made possible through a collaboration with the Community Services League, will assist anyone that may have overnight sheltering needs over the next two days as yet another winter storm followed by extreme cold works through our area.
The Sermon Center, located at 201 N. Dodgion, is available as a warming site at the following times, Thursday through Saturday:
Overnight accommodations will be handled on a case-by-case basis for any individuals in need. Those needing overnight accommodations are asked to arrive no later than 7 p.m. to allow time for paperwork. Please note those eligible for overnight accommodations do not have access to a safe, warm, dry place, or friends or family to stay with during the storm or cold weather.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for our area from 9 p.m. tonight through 6 a.m., Friday, March 11. Heavy snow with the potential to exceed 6 inches is expected. Windchills are anticipated to drop to dangerous levels overnight on Friday, March 11. Everyone should take precautions to protect themselves and their pets from cold weather-related illnesses.
During periods of extreme cold weather young children, older adults, the chronically ill, and individuals with disabilities and/or functional needs are most at risk of having cold-related health problems. Please check on family and friends regularly during extreme weather and remember in the case of an emergency always call 9-1-1.
Pets should not be kept outdoors in these extreme temps without appropriate shelter. If pets cannot come inside, make sure they have a dry, appropriately-sized, draft-free enclosure, and access to fresh, unfrozen water.
If you need additional information or resources, please call the City’s community partner United Way 211 line at 2-1-1 or (816) 474-5112.