12/11/2007
TIM UNRUH
Shelters are open for people affected by the ice storm that has rendered much of Kansas without electricity or other utilities.

A shelter warming center will remain open until 6 p.m. at Salina Central High School, 650 E. Crawford, with coffee, hot chocolate and doughnuts, according to the North Central Kansas Chapter of the American Red Cross, Salina.

Overnight shelters are available at the Webster Baptist Conference Center north of Interstate Highway 70 off Ohio; in Sterl Hall, Abilene; Lincoln High School, Lincoln; the Community Building in Herington and the Friendship Center in Holyrood. Those shelters will be available by 4 p.m. Those needing shelter should arrive as early as possible so shelter aides know how many meals to prepare.

For your comfort, bring your own blankets, pillows, towels and personal hygiene items. Please remember to bring your medications or other special needs. If you need transportation to get to a shelter, please call your local Emergency Management office.

The Red Cross is not a government agency. It relies on individual financial donations, grants and the United Way to do its work. You can help victims of this disaster and others by sending donations to the North Central Kansas Chapter, Box 1633, Salina, KS 67402-1633.