02/19/2025
Winter Less Cold Frequently Asked Questions
1 | What is an extreme weather station and what does it do?
An extreme weather warming center is a short-term emergency shelter that operates when a combination of precipitation, wind child, and temperature becomes dangerously inclement.
In the instance of the WLC shelter, our center opens when the forecasted local temperatures drop to 15° or below (air temperature or wind chill) for more than 48 hours.
2 | Where is the location?
Attucks Community Alliance has graciously allowed us to utilize their community center to house individuals and families during extreme cold weather events. Attucks is located at 1001 S. 12th St.
3 | When is it open?
When weather requirements are met, the doors to the center will open at 5:00pm to begin registration. The doors will close for the evening at 8:00pm. Volunteers help the participants get settled and stay overnight to provide security.
The notification of the center being open is posted on the WLC page.
4 | What are the requirements for entry?
The center is a low barrier facility, this means that as long participants are able to care for themselves and cause no harm to the other participants or the facility, they are welcome to stay overnight.
The center does not request any form of identification or documentation to stay.
5 | Can I bring pets?
Yes. Pets are allowed and will be kenneled while present. When pets are allowed out for breaks, they must be on a lead or under control of the handler at all times.
6 | Is transportation provided?
Sometimes. Cimarron Transit is able to provide transportation when funds and weather permit. This transportation is pre-scheduled from specific locations and that information is provided on the WLC page.
7 | Is food provided?
No. However, participants are encouraged to dine at Friendship Feast before attending the center. Additionally, NERA often provides breakfast boxes for participants to receive when exiting the center in the morning.
8 | What can people do before it’s open or after it’s closed?
There are other agencies available in Ponca City that allow participants to stay safe indoors during the business hours. We give those resources to the participants during registration.
If the center will be open more than one evening, participants are allowed to leave their personal belongings behind should they choose as the building is locked when not in use.
9 | Where can I find out more information?
Please visit our page for the most up-to-date information: https://www.facebook.com/awinterlesscold
10 | What does it cost? Who pays for this?
There are a lot of costs involved, but not for the participants. Various non-profit organizations around Kay County offer their time, services, goods, and funds to make sure this is a safe, accessible, and consistent opportunity for those that need safe shelter.
These are the non-profit agencies that could use your support in their mission to serve:
Attucks Community Alliance
United Way of North Central Oklahoma
Kay County Health Foundation
Survivor Resource Network
The Givers
New Emergency Resource Agency
Friendship Feast of The First Christian Church
Avenue of Hope - Ponca City
Cimarron Transit - UCAP
11 | How does one become a volunteer?
Please contact the United Way of North Central Oklahoma or message the Winter Less Cold page for more information about how you or your group can help.
