Gastonia, NC (October 2, 2026) The City of Gastonia has extended its deadline for proposals to operate a warming shelter/center during the 2026-2027 winter season after receiving a small number of submissions. Proposals now must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026.
Last month, the City issued its request for proposals (RFP) to faith-based, for-profit, nonprofit, or other organizations to operate the warming shelter/center that will allow individuals to safely escape freezing temperatures.
Warming shelter/center operations will be activated based on temperatures reported by the National Weather Service. The center will open when temperatures reach 32°F or lower, as determined by the National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg Forecast Office.
The proposed operational period for the warming shelter/center is November 23, 2026, through March 31, 2027, with activation occurring when the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures of 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
The City of Gastonia and Gaston County each have earmarked funds to support program operations, and the City has been awarded a $45,000 grant from the Gaston Community Foundation for the warming shelter/center.
Any organizations interested in operating the warming shelter/center should review the full, updated Request for Proposals (RFP) online.
For more information about the RFP or if you have questions, please contact Stacy Pethia at (704) 866-6758 or Zsuzsi Kadar at (704) 866-6745.
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