CLEVELAND, Ga. — White County will open an emergency shelter Saturday morning for individuals and families who cannot safely shelter in place during the approaching winter storm, including residents who rely on medical devices that require electricity.
The shelter is intended for people with factors that limit their ability to remain at home during prolonged winter weather conditions, such as those dependent on home oxygen or other electrically powered medical equipment, according to White County Public Information Officer Bryce Barrett.
Registration is required to request shelter space. Individuals who are approved must be prepared to report to the shelter location by 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, and should plan for a stay of up to four days, as weather and road conditions may deteriorate rapidly after that time.
After a sheltering request is submitted, applicants will be contacted with additional instructions.
Residents can request shelter space online at whitecountyga.gov/shelterrequest. Those who are unable to complete the online form may call the White County Emergency Operations Center at 706-865-9800 for assistance.
Shelter occupants must bring all items needed for the duration of their stay. Required items include changes of clothing, personal hygiene products, medications, diapers and supplies for children, snacks, baby food and formula, and all necessary medical equipment, including oxygen concentrators and related supplies.
County officials emphasized that these items will not be provided at the shelter and that supplies cannot be delivered once sheltering operations begin.
Shelter space is limited, and only individuals who can arrive at the shelter location by 1 p.m. Saturday will be accommodated, Barrett said.
