With dangerous sub-zero wind chill temperatures forecasted along the Front Range this Sunday into Tuesday, the City of Westminster will convert the Countryside Recreation Center (10470 Oak St.) into a temporary warming shelter for residents in need. The shelter will operate from noon on Sunday, January 29, until noon on Tuesday, January 31. 

The Countryside Recreation Center is prepared to host up to 45 guests, providing each person with a cot, linens, water, food, and access to bathrooms. Guests do not need to register in advance, and beds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to call the Countryside Recreation Center ahead of time to check availability at (303) 466-1738 beginning Sunday at noon.  

With wind chill temperatures dipping to as low as 15 below zero Sunday evening, the City recognized a need to set up a safe and warm place for residents experiencing homelessness or an emergency loss of power. The City’s homeless response team will be providing transportation to the warming shelter and back to their residence free of charge after the shelter is closed on Tuesday. The City’s homelessness response team will inform unhoused individuals of Westminster’s temporary warming shelter, and other options offered by Adams and Jefferson County.  

• In Adams County, the Severe Weather Action Plan (SWAP) has been activated. More information about SWAP can be found here   

• In Jefferson County, the Severe Weather Shelter Network is open and prepared to serve residents Saturday and Sunday, January 28 and 29. More information about this service can be found here.  

Emergency service staff in Westminster including park rangers, police officers, and fire/EMS staff are prepared to hand out cold-weather gear to residents who choose not to utilize the temporary shelter at Countryside. 

Residents who wish to volunteer or make donations should contact local non-profits such as Growing Home, Adams County Street Outreach Program, and the Red Cross.