Mansfield, OH – As freezing temperatures impact north-central Ohio, Richland County officials have activated daytime and overnight warming centers to provide shelter, meals, and essential services to residents in need today.
According to the Richland County Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA), a daytime warming center is open at the ARC Empowerment Center, 378 Park Avenue West in Mansfield, operating 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The facility offers hot meals, indoor warmth, and access to supportive services throughout the day.
Hot meal service times include breakfast at 9:30 a.m., lunch at 12:30 p.m., and dinner at 4:30 p.m. Donations can be dropped off at Door 5, facing Sycamore Street. Community health worker services are also available, including assistance with housing, employment, food security, medical coverage, and hygiene items.
An overnight warming center will operate at First United Methodist Church, 19 North Diamond Street in Mansfield, beginning 7:00 p.m. tonight through 7:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, when temperatures fall to 20 degrees or lower, according to EMA officials.
Both warming centers are volunteer-run and operate on a day-to-day basis depending on weather conditions. Officials urge residents to call 2-1-1 or 419-522-4636 for the most current availability and hours.
EMA also recommends utilizing public indoor spaces such as local libraries and The Ontario Center during daytime hours if additional warming options are needed.
⚠️ Volunteers are urgently needed to staff the overnight warming center. Those interested can contact Peggy Lewis Powers at 419-564-9542 for more information.
Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, especially seniors and those without reliable heat, as cold conditions persist.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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