Sat Jun 28 12:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Columbus City Council is teaming up with local organizations, including the Gateway Film Center, to provide relief from the extreme heatwave affecting the city. This includes free movie tickets with refreshments, extended hours at existing cooling centers, and the operation of additional overnight cooling relief centers. The initiative aims to protect residents during the heat advisory, which has been extended.
**News Article:**
**Columbus Offers Free Movies, Extended Cooling Centers Amidst Heatwave**
COLUMBUS, OH – With the National Weather Service extending its extreme heat advisory until 8 p.m. on Friday, June 27th, Columbus City Council has announced a partnership with the Gateway Film Center and several community organizations to offer residents much-needed relief. The initiative aims to combat the potentially dangerous effects of the heatwave by providing free entertainment and extended cooling center hours.
“Providing these supports saves lives,” said Councilmember Christopher L. Wyche, who spearheaded the effort. “We are grateful to our corporate, nonprofit, and departmental partners that were willing to step up to meet the needs of the community.”
As part of the program, the Gateway Film Center, located at 1550 N. High St., will offer free tickets for select movie showings on June 26th and 27th. The free tickets also include complimentary popcorn and soda. Details on specific movie titles and showtimes are available at the Gateway Film Center.
In addition to the cinematic reprieve, the City Council is supporting extended hours at several existing cooling centers, including:
* **United Methodist Church and Community Development for All People (CD4AP)**, 946 Parsons Ave., will remain open until 10 p.m., offering dinner to those seeking refuge from the heat.
* **3rd Shift Warming and Cooling Center**, 1015 E. Main St., will operate as an overnight cooling relief center from 9:30 p.m. to 6 a.m.
* **First Step Recovery Center**, 813 Bryden Road, will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these resources to stay safe and cool during the extreme heat. Check the city’s website or contact the listed locations for specific details and available services.