ODESSA, Texas — A warm place to stay is something we often take for granted. But in this record-breaking winter storm, we have all been reminded just what a necessity it is.
The Copper Rose building has power and a large space, so the building owner decided to put it to good use.
“There are 25,000 plus households without power and I have a 20,000 square foot building," John Herriage, Copper Rose building owner, said. "I spoke with Judge Hays and I said let’s open a warming shelter here because we have gas, we have electricity. Let’s take care of the community.”
Ector County, Odessa police and firefighters all helped to pull it off.
“We’ll have OPD here, there will be an officer here at all times so you should be safe," Herriage said.
And it is safe to say: people are grateful for the shelter.
“I mean, I’d be sitting in a tent right now if it wasn’t for this place," Harley Davis, who is homeless, said.
Herriage says the space will be open as long as there’s ice on the streets.
He is calling on other West Texans to do what they can to help others during this weather.
“Check on your neighbor, take care of your family, just see what you can do to take care of your fellow Odessan,” Herriage said.
The warming station could use donations like water bottles, snacks, food, etc.
The Salvation Army locations in Odessa and Midland are also open to those in need, they will provide meals. As well as St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Parish.