Fri Feb 21 11:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Cold Weather Shelters Open in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties
**SARASOTA/CHARLOTTE COUNTY, FL [Date]** – With temperatures expected to plummet, Sarasota and Charlotte counties are opening emergency cold weather shelters Thursday evening, February 20th. Emergency Management officials have partnered with local organizations to provide refuge for those in need.
One shelter will operate at 100 Church, located at 14525 Tamiami Trail in North Port, opening at 5 p.m. and remaining open until 7 a.m. Friday. A meal will be provided, but attendees are asked to bring their own sleeping bags or blankets.
A second shelter is available at the Charlotte CARE Center (formerly the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition) at 1476 Kenesaw St., Port Charlotte. However, pre-registration is required by calling 941-627-4313, and guests must arrive by 8 p.m.
Emergency Management officials urge residents to take precautions during the cold snap, advising against leaving pets outdoors and recommending that anyone spending time outside wear multiple layers of warm clothing to protect themselves from wind chill.
First Piper 