When temperatures in the Branson area soar, a local nonprofit offers those in need an opportunity to beat the heat.
House of Hope operates a cooling center in the same facility that houses the warming center during winter months.
"House of Hope's Cooling Center operates when the temperature reaches 95 degrees at some point during the day," explained House of Hope's Alex Sprinkle. "Additionally, if a heat advisory is issued for our area, we will be open as well."
As of Tuesday, the cooling center had been open nine days over the summer, and at press time the center was predicted to be open daily through at least Friday.
"There have been several individuals in our community who have utilized the cooling center," noted Sprinkle. "We average between 15 to 20 guests a day. While House of Hope primarily serves the unsheltered population, we felt it's important to note that the cooling center is a resource for the entire community. If someone is without access to AC for any reason, they can come in and escape the dangerous temperatures."
During the summer of 2023, the cooling center was open a total of 19 days.
Said Sprinkle, "Last year was our first year opening the center, adding this much-needed resource to the downtown area. We averaged about 10 guests utilizing the services throughout the day. This year, we have noticed an increased utilization of services offered to the community at House of Hope, both during the Cooling Center and Warming Center."
House of Hope offers guests more than just an opportunity to cool off.
"At House of Hope, breakfast is served Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. every week. When the cooling center is open, guests are, of course, welcome to eat breakfast before shifting upstairs to the center," Sprinkle explained. "In addition, guests are provided with lunch, snacks and drinks. Showers and laundry services are available for guests to utilize throughout the day."
There are many ways that members of the community can assist with the House of Hope's Cooling Center.
'Volunteering is always an incredible way to serve the community and connect with so many of our guests throughout the day," said Sprinkle. "Additionally, food donations are always so helpful when we have lots of guests in the center. Food and drink donation suggestions include Gatorade, juice, milk, lunch meat, cheese, Hot Pockets, microwavable meals, etc. In the case that individuals don't want to shop but would love to contribute, they can donate online at www.houseofhopebranson.org/donate. If you have additional questions, call the office at 417-544-0162."
House of Hope is located at 217 Veterans Boulevard in downtown Branson. On days the cooling center is open, the hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to provide the vital program to those in the Branson area.
Said Sprinkle, "House of Hope feels incredibly thankful to be a part of the Branson community."
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