City of Pharr and Vanguard Academy to Open Warming Shelter on THURSDAY, 2/18 at 7 pm
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is once again partnering with Vanguard Academy to open a Warming Shelter ahead of the inclement winter weather forecasted for this evening.
The shelter, located at the Vanguard Academy Gymnasium (1200 E. Kelly Ave.) in Pharr will open at 7 pm TONIGHT, Thursday, February 18, and will close at 10 am on Friday, February 19, 2021.
“While we are relieved to hear that ERCOT has authorized AEP Texas to restore power, we know that the process will take a while and encourage anyone in the city who is still without power to stay overnight at our warming shelter,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “Temperatures are expected to drop and we want everyone to remain safe, healthy, and warm,” he added.
The City of Pharr will provide a cot to sleep. Those seeking shelter are encouraged to bring blankets, pillows, food/snacks, and any prescription medication they need. Pets are not allowed. Face masks are required. Space is limited and is on a first-come, first-served basis. COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place including screening for guests, temperature checks, expanded space to allow physical distancing, hygiene access, and increased sanitation guidelines.
While the restoration of electric services throughout the state is underway and Pharr citizens are expected to have their electrical service back soon, the city is asking those families without power or those in need of a warm place to make plans to stay at the shelter as temperatures are expected to drop this evening.
“We understand this has been a difficult situation for many in our community and we are glad to hear that services are being restored,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “At this moment, we join AEP Texas in asking that citizens who remain without power turn off electric systems to allow for a smooth transition as the grid is restored and those with power to practice energy conservation to help prevent new outages,” added Hernandez.
AEP Texas also reminds all customers to unplug any electronic devices from the wall such as computers and televisions. Once power is restored, you should switch the devices back on gradually over the following 30-to-45 minutes. Taking this step will help prevent new outages as service is restored in your area.
The City of Pharr urges all citizens to continue conserving energy as crews work to restore the system and to stay safe as extreme winter weather is expected to drops temperatures this evening.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of Pharr and Vanguard Academy to Open Warming Shelter
WHEN: February 18 at 7 pm through Friday, February 19 at 10 am
WHERE: Vanguard Academy Gymnasium (1200 E. Kelly Ave. Pharr, TX 78577)
