From the Orange County Newsroom, The City of Apopka, and Staff Reports
As temperatures continue to dip in Apopka and throughout Orange County, local officials have decided to keep cold weather shelters open to provide warmth and safety for those in need. With forecasts predicting potential bouts of chilly conditions, these shelters are crucial in ensuring that vulnerable residents have access to a safe refuge, reinforcing the community’s commitment to protecting its most at-risk populations during these frigid nights.
Cold Weather Shelter in Apopka
From The City of Apopka:
The City of Apopka, in collaboration with One Family Church (First Presbyterian Church of Apopka), First Baptist Apopka, and dedicated community members, will open a Cold Weather Shelter to assist residents during the upcoming cold weather.
Shelter Details:
- Location: One Family Church (First Presbyterian Church of Apopka) – 500 S Highland Ave, Apopka, FL 32703
- Dates: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 – Thursday, January 9, 2025
- Hours: 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Please note that pets are not permitted at the shelter.
Temporary Warming Centers in Orange County
Orange County Government’s Temporary Warming Centers to Remain Open Through Friday Morning, January 10, 2025
Facilities at Barnett Park & South Econ Park open nightly at 5:00 p.m. and close promptly at 8:00 a.m. each morning.
Orange County, Fla. – Due to predicted cold weather, Orange County Government will continue to support the Homeless Services Network (HSN) in welcoming residents and people without stable housing to two area Warming Centers. These temporary locations will complement efforts to meet the needs of our homeless population at existing HSN shelters.
Orange County’s temporary Warming Center hours will be updated as weather conditions dictate.
Orange County Warming Center Locations:
South Econ Recreation Center Gym
(Adjacent to the Renaissance Senior Center)
3800 S Econlockhatchee Trail
Orlando, FL 32829
Opens nightly at 5:00 p.m. and closes promptly the following morning at 8:00 a.m.
Barnett Park Recreation Center Gym
4801 W Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32808
Opens nightly at 5:00 p.m. and closes promptly the following morning at 8:00 a.m.
Transportation
Regional LYNX buses will provide free rides for individuals seeking transportation to the HSN shelters listed below. Riders must let the LYNX driver know that they need shelter. The LYNX driver will transport those in need to the nearest HSN shelter location.
Orange County Homeless Shelters
Coalition for the Homeless
18 N Terry Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
The Salvation Army Orlando (Men Only)
624 Lexington Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Orlando Union Rescue Mission
3300 West Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32805
Winter Freeze Precautions for Orange County Residents
As Central Florida braces for cold temperatures, Orange County Utilities reminds residents about precautions to prevent damage to their home plumbing systems. Should forecasted weather turn more frigid and drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below, taking some preventative steps could save costly damage to residential pipes.
To safeguard against possible impacts to your home, follow these best practices prior to the arrival of cold weather:
- Insulate Exposed Water Pipes: Use towels or other insulating materials to wrap any outdoor water pipes. This adds an extra layer of protection, helping to keep the water in the pipes warmer and lowering the risk of freezing.
- Outdoor Valve and Spigot Protection: Cover outdoor water valves and spigots when temperatures are expected to freeze. Fitted plastic covers will do the job and can be found at most local hardware and home improvement stores.
- Keep a Drip: Allow a small, steady drip from several indoor faucets. The constant movement of water can prevent freezing by maintaining a flow through the pipes. Please also capture this water and beneficially reuse it to water indoor houseplants or some other use.
- Emergency Shut-off Awareness: Know the location of your water shut-off valve, typically outside the home or at the meter. Quick action can minimize damage in the case of a burst pipe.
- Irrigation System Management: Turn off your irrigation system at the main control and drain the system of water by opening each valve. Once the system is drained, close each valve and leave the system shut off until the next time you use it.
Residents are encouraged to share these tips with neighbors and friends to ensure the community is prepared for colder temperatures. For additional assistance with emergency water shut-off, please contact Orange County Utilities Dispatch at 407-836-2777.
