Thursday, October 1, 2026
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GASTONIA, N.C. – With sub-freezing temperatures expected for multiple days this weekend during Winter Storm Fern, the City of Gastonia and Gaston County are providing additional funding to support the opening of a Warming Center on a 24/7 basis.
The Center, which is being operated by HealthNet Gaston and hosted at Unity Baptist Church, 482 N. Myrtle School Road, in Gastonia, will open at 8 p.m. on Friday, January 23, and remain open through 7 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27. This warming center has operated throughout the winter for the overnight hours for members of Gaston County’s unhoused population and those that need a place to go to get out of dangerous weather elements.
In order to operate the center this weekend, HealthNet Gaston is asking for volunteers who have already taken their volunteer training to help with staffing.
“This is a time where our community can step up and show support for those in the greatest need,” said Gaston County Commissioner Cathy Cloninger. “This weekend’s storm is likely to be one of the worst we’ve had in a number of years, and I am proud of the efforts made by the County, City and our partners to make sure no one in Gaston County gets left out in the cold.”
The Warming Center is a collaborative effort between the City of Gastonia, Gaston County, HealthNet Gaston, Gaston-Lincoln-Cleveland Continuum of Care, Unity Baptist Church, City Church, and the United Way of Gaston County.
“Cold weather like this can be dangerous, and we don’t want anyone left out in it,” said Gastonia Mayor Richard Franks. “Extending the warming center’s hours means more people have a safe, warm place to go, and we’re grateful for our county and our community partners who are helping make this possible.”
The Warming Center will provide a heated space, access to water, and information about available community resources. Community organizations, like the United Way and Gateway Gaston, will continue to support guests by providing pre-packaged food, clothing, and hygiene items. Individuals or organizations wishing to support the Warming Center can:
