St. Louis, MO  (KTRS) Efforts continue to protect the public during this dangerous cold.

Shelters have opened throughout the region to help those most in need. St. Louis County is among the communities taking part in these efforts.

“The bitter cold can be deadly and we need to make sure everyone has access to a warm and safe location,” St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger said. “We have teamed up with the Salvation Army to provide professional services to our most vulnerable residents this winter. Aside from providing relief from the cold, anyone using the shelter will have access to the Salvation Army’s array of services including meals, laundry facilities and case management to help those in need find housing.”

St. Vincent Community Center at 7335 St Charles Rock Road in North County is open from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the Affton White – Rodgers Community Center at 9801 Mackenzie Rd. in South County is open from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Also, St. Louis County and the Salvation Army have partnered to provide 24-hour warming shelter services this winter.

The round-the-clock shelter, located at 10740 Page Avenue in Maryland Heights, is operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week until mid-March. The facility can accommodate up to 48 individuals.

Those needing shelter in St. Louis City should contact the following agencies:

● Call St. Louis Housing Helpline: (314) 802-5444
● Call United Way: 211
● Go to the Biddle Housing Opportunities Center: (314) 612-1675
1313 N. Tucker St., St. Louis, MO 63101

In addition, Human Services Director Irene Agustin said emergency personnel and private organizations are transporting anyone in danger of sleeping outside to a shelter, no questions asked.

“We are working around the clock to make sure everyone is safe, but we need help. If you see
someone who needs help, please call emergency responders,” Agustin said.