Heat shelters opening in Valdosta

Jan. 16—VALDOSTA — With temperatures expected to hit bone-chilling lows this week, a local non-profit organization is opening a heat shelter for those who need it.

Lowndes Associated Ministries to People will take in those who need a warm place at night Tuesday through Sunday nights, said Yurshema Flanders, LAMP's executive director.

The shelter — at 714 Charlton Street — can hold up to 20 people, she said.

"All they have to do is show up, and they can get a dinner and have somewhere to take a shower and clean their clothes," Flanders said.The shelter will be open from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. each night, she said.

The Salvation Army, located at 317 Virginia Ave., is also offering shelter from the cold, a statement from Lowndes County said.

The National Weather Service forecast shows Valdosta's overnight lows dipping into the lower 20s most nights through Sunday.

Terry Richards is the senior reporter for The Valdosta Daily Times.