BRAZOS VALLEY, TX — Texans are gearing up for what meteorologists are calling arctic freezing temperatures. Many here in South Texas, are especially caught by surprise, and may not be prepared. The need to stay warm is big, and the Brazos valley salvation army is here to help.
”This is very unusual weather for south Texas," Lt. Timothy Isreal, the Executive Director for the Bryan College Station Salvation Army said. "A lot of times, we don’t have the heavy jackets or the well-insulated homes that many people up north may have, and so, we really find ourselves in need during this time,”
Those who may not be prepared for this extremely cold weather, are coming to the minds of those who want to help.
”To those that maybe aren’t able to get relief from the cold, because their either without heat in their home, or they are homeless, so immediately, I think, those individuals are coming to mind, so people are sensitive to that,” Lt. Israel added.
The Salvation Army is providing blankets, jackets, and heaters. They began the day with 58 heaters, and by midday, they had already handed out about 25. With a simple proof of residency and picture ID, you can visit the main office on Cavitt Ave. in Bryan and request what you need.
”Anyone in need, we want to make sure they have whatever resources they need," said Lt. Isreal. "Whether that’s a heater or even a jacket, we don’t want someone going out there and being vulnerable to the cold,”
Terry Lamar, who also utilizes rental assistance from the Salvation Army, was able to pick up a heater, which to his surprise, they had readily available.
”I was here for rental assistance, and people were coming in asking for heaters, so I said, I needed a heater as well,” said Terry Lamar, a resident of the Brazos Valley.
The weather forecasts are looking to drop pretty low, so those seeking some extra tools to stay warm, visit your local Salvation Army for all your needs.
”I advise everyone to come down," added Lamar. "If you need a blanket, heater, you know anything for this weather that’s coming, you know to come to the Salvation Army,”
The Salvation Army is open on Fridays from 9 A.M. to 2 P.M. but is closed on weekends.
Due to the weather, if roadways aren’t in the best condition, we can expect businesses to remain closed come Monday. So be sure to plan ahead to stay safe, and stay warm.