Stockton opens warming zone at Stribley Community Center this weekend during low temperatures

Angelaydet Rocha, The Record
·2 min read

Low temperatures and rain have taken over San Joaquin County this week and are expected to continue through the weekend. The city of Stockton will be providing an overnight warming zone at Stribley Community Center, 1760 E. Sonora St., opening Thursday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 4.

"The shelters in our community do such tremendous work and are really the best at addressing the needs of those who are currently experiencing homelessness. During these cold, wet weather events they occasionally reach capacity, so we can assist with offering the Warming Zone," City spokeswoman Connie Cochran said via email. "Anyone who needs a warm place to rest is welcome. If you do not have a home or have a home, but not adequate heat, you are welcome to come to Stribley."

Stribley will provide attendees with a resting space for the night, restrooms, water and snacks. Pets are not allowed at the center.

Doors will open for check-in at 8 p.m. Thursday. No IDs are required to enter but face masks are required at the center. Face masks will be provided. Attendees must also confirm to be free of all COVID-19 symptoms.

“In the past, we have opened multiple Warming Zones and the Stribley Community Center location was the most used and the only center with overnight guests,” Cochran said.

At the moment, San Joaquin County is not opening any additional warming centers, Tiffany Heyer, deputy director of General Services, Emergency Operations at the San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services, said in an email Thursday.

Stockton's warming zone does not provide “full shelter services.” For meals and medical care contact local shelters directly for more information or call 2-1-1.

Stockton Shelters:

  • Gospel Center Rescue Mission, 445 S. San Joaquin St., (209) 466-2138

  • Stockton Shelter for the Homeless, 411 S. Harrison St., (209) 465-3612

“Even though we are not experiencing extended periods of extreme cold, as we have in the past, those who are unsheltered are at higher risk of hypothermia when they get wet and cannot get dry,” Cochran said. “Stay dry and warm to avoid health issues.”

For more information about cold weather safety, visit the county's emergency website.

This article originally appeared on The Record: California weather: Stockton opens warming zone amid cold, rainy storm