City of Mt. Vernon Opens Warming Shelter in Response to Severe Weather

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Nathan McKenna
Assistant City Manager
608-242-6802
Nathan.mckenna@mtvernon.com

City of Mt. Vernon Opens Warming Shelter in Response to Severe Weather

Mt. Vernon, IL – January 3, 2025 – Severe weather, including snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures, is expected to impact the Mt. Vernon area starting Saturday night and continuing through Monday. In response, the City of Mt. Vernon, with the assistance of the Red Cross, Jefferson County EMA, and Mt. Vernon EMA, will open a warming shelter to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

The warming shelter will open on Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Roland Lewis Community Building, 800 S. 27th Street, Mt. Vernon, and will remain available as long as there is a need during this weather event. The facility is open to all individuals seeking refuge from the cold; however, due to space limitations, pets cannot be accommodated.

Mayor John C. Lewis emphasized the importance of community support during severe weather: "The safety and well-being of our residents are our top priorities. This warming shelter reflects our commitment to coming together as a community to support one another."

Organizations wishing to assist by volunteering or providing food are welcome and encouraged to contribute. Those interested can contact Mt. Vernon EMA Coordinator Bryan Jennings at 618-316-9303 for further details.

Residents are urged to minimize travel as road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly due to the forecasted snow and ice.

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