The City of Goshen and the Goshen Salvation Army as a joint effort have designated the Salvation Army building as a cooling center today Monday, June 18, for anyone in need of shelter from the high temperatures.
The National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for Elkhart County in effect until 8 p.m. Monday. Temperatures today are expected to rise to between 90 and 95 degrees this afternoon, with heat indices around 100 degrees for several hours. People exposed to full sunshine could experience heat indices several degrees higher.
Anyone in need of an air-conditioned room during the day may go to the Salvation Army, 1013 N. Main St., entering through the south entrance. The building will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. For any additional questions, the Salvation Army may be reached at 533-9584.
Mayor Jeremy Stutsman thanked Majors Sally and Tim Sell for opening the doors of the Salvation Army to the public in this time of need.
“I hope those in need use this great community resource,” he said. “I would also like to encourage the public look after each other. Please check on your neighbors and loved ones, especially the elderly, and take them to the shelter if they need it.”
Major Tim Sell too said he is hopeful word spreads in the community about the cooling center as a resource.
“We always want to meet needs whenever they present themselves in the community,” he said. “Being called upon by the City helps to get the word out to as many people in need as possible.”
The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which illnesses are possible. The public is advised to drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun. Check your local media channel or the National Weather Service for the latest updates on the weather.