The City of Gastonia and Gaston County will partner with HealthNet Gaston (HNG) and Unity Baptist Church to host a Warming Center this winter season to provide a safe and warm place for anyone in need during periods of extreme cold.
The Warming Center will begin operations on or after November 23, 2025, when the forecasted temperature is 32 degrees or below and will end operations on or before March 31, 2026. It will be open from 8:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. at Unity Baptist Church, located at 482 N. Myrtle School Rd. in Gastonia. There will be security on site while the warming center is open.
The decision to open the Warming Center will be made 48 hours in advance, based on forecasts from the National Weather Service. Notifications will be shared through official government communication channels, partner organizations, and local community networks, which include social media platforms for the City of Gastonia, Gaston County, and HNG.
The Warming Center is a collaborative effort between the City of Gastonia, Gaston County, HNG, Gaston-Lincoln-Cleveland Continuum of Care, Unity Baptist Church, City Church, and the United Way of Gaston County (UW). Partner organizations will coordinate volunteers, supplies, and services for guests.
“We are grateful to Unity Baptist Church and our community partners for opening their doors to serve those in need,” said Assistant Gaston County Manager Steve Eaton. “This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to ensuring our most vulnerable residents have access to a safe and warm place during dangerous weather conditions.”
“Our collaboration with the County, local faith partners, and community nonprofits reflects what is possible when we unite around a shared mission,” said Quentin McPhatter, Assistant City Manager of Gastonia. “Together, we are dedicated to providing resources and compassion to those who need it most.”
The Warming Center will provide a heated space, access to water, and information about available community resources. Community organizations, like the United Way and Gateway Gaston, will continue to support guests by providing pre-packaged food, clothing, and hygiene items. Individuals or organizations wishing to support the Warming Center can:
- Donate items through the Amazon Wish List or drop off donations at HealthNet Gaston (613 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28054); for more information, visit HNG’s website.
Interested in volunteering at the Warming Center? Register for Volunteer Training.