With the colder temperatures that the Ozarks have realized recently, the Warming Center, operated by House of Hope, has been busy providing warmth for those in need.
"The Warming Center opens when temperature is projected to be 32 or below overnight," explained House of Hope's Alex Sprinkle. "We utilize the KY3 hourly updates to gauge whether the center will be open or not. We will post on House of Hope's social media if the center is open."
On those cold nights, the Warming Center opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 7 a.m. the following morning. In addition to a warm place to sleep, guests enjoy a warm dinner, breakfast, snacks and more.
"When a new guest arrives at the center, they are greeted by our intake staff. The guest will complete intake paperwork and review the rules with our crew," said Sprinkle. "Once they complete the intake process, they proceed to the Warming Center. A warm meal and a safe space to sleep await them inside. There is a men's side, a women's side and a family room. Guests are welcome to utilize the shower facility and laundry facility while at the center. For entertainment, guests also have access to games and online streaming on the TV."
An important part of the stay is the warm meal provided each evening. Since the House of Hope does not have a stove, generous area businesses donate meals for the guests.
"This year we have had Pappos, Florentina's staff and Local Flavor provide meals for our guests," Sprinkle noted.
House of Hope provides many opportunities for the community to help those who utilize the Warming Center.
Said Sprinkle, "If you are a local restaurant business, food and beverage donations are always such a significant help. The guests enjoy the variety of food served and often try to pick out their favorites from week to week. If you're a passionate community member who loves to serve, there is always a need for volunteers to love on our guests. Another way the community can help is by providing goodies to stock the Warming Center. Current needs include Hot Hands, feminine hygiene items, coffee cups, plates, high-protein snacks and drinks."
Donations can be dropped off at House of Hope, at 217 Veterans Boulevard in downtown Branson.
In addition to the food and services provided, House of Hope guests should anticipate experiencing community.
"Our greatest hope at the Center is that guests will experience a sense of belonging," said Sprinkle. "There are so many of our guests who have experienced trauma and hardship. While they are at the center, we want them to know they are safe and they are loved."
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