While we reached freezing this weekend, weather is expected to continue and worsen throughout the week, with snow expected on Thursday and Friday. Though ERCOT insists that the grid is equipped for the storm, here’s how you should prepare — and how to help others.
The Plano Overnight Warming Station (POWS) anticipates receiving over 100 guests per night this week, according to a news release. They are asking for the public to help by donating hygiene items and new or clean, gently-used clothing items. Donations should be placed in bags and labeled “For POWS.”
POWS is an overnight, short-term emergency shelter offering safety for unhoused neighbors as a collaborative effort between the City of Plano, East Plano Islamic Center, The Salvation Army and other service groups and volunteers.
Donation locations include:
- Hope Restored Missions – 1947 K. Avenue Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church – 1201 Alma Drive Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- First Presbyterian Church – 1500 Jupiter Road Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Call first to 972.423.4292)
POWS are specifically looking for socks, shoes, underwear, jeans, sweatshirts/hoodies, winter hats, gloves, books, activity books and new, individual-sized hygiene items.
The Plano Overnight Warming Station is located at East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC), with bus pickup at the DART Parker Road Station between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Doors close at 10 p.m., with no entry unless accompanied by the Plano Police Department or Plano Fire-Rescue.
The City of Plano also reminds the public to be prepared by remembering to protect the four P’s:
- Protect PEOPLE – Keep warm, dress in layers. Check on your friends, family and neighbors.
- Protect PETS – Bring pets inside to keep them warm and safe. If you’re cold, they are too. If you know of an animal being kept outdoors without appropriate shelter, call Plano Animal Services at (972) 769-4360.
- Protect PLANTS – Bring potted plants inside. Cover outdoor plants with cloth fabric.
- Protect PIPES – Cover outdoor pipes. Steadily drip faucets. Open cabinet doors to allow air to circulate. Turn off your irrigation system.
