Warming centers open

COEUR d'ALENE - Frigid temperatures are on the way, prompting St. Vincent de Paul to open its warming centers.

The nonprofit - the region's largest provider of services for the homeless - opened warming centers Monday in Coeur d'Alene and Post Falls.

The centers will remain open through at least Friday, with additional days added as long as temperatures dip below 25 degrees.

"St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho is committed to serve as a warming center for homeless individuals during bouts of extreme cold this winter," states the nonprofit's Facebook page.

The warming centers are located at Fresh Start in Coeur d'Alene, 1524 E. Sherman Ave., and at 202 W. Seventh St. in Post Falls. They are open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

"When opened, the centers will allow people to get out of the cold, eat a warm meal, and stay warm," states St. Vincent de Paul on its Facebook page. "We also provide case management, access to resources and access to medical services."

The centers are not designed as regular housing and the group estimates that 60 to 80 people will be sheltered at the two locations.

Fresh Start will serve as the main center; once it reaches capacity, the Post Falls center will open as well.

For more information on the program, contact Matt Hutchinson at (208)664-3095.