NEWPORT, Ky. — A winter storm came through Kentucky Thursday night into Friday. This storm brought snow, ice, wind chills and temperatures dipping below zero.

These are conditions that could prove extremely dangerous to people. That’s why Holy Spirit Parish Center, alongside Welcome House and other volunteers, opened their doors to give people a space to warm up.

The center opened Thursday evening and will remain open through the holiday weekend, like many across Kentucky.

“We knew that a life-threatening event was going to happen and folks needed our help,” said Bev Merrill, a volunteer at the center.

This warming center catered to people who may need a warm space. That also means catering to the homeless.

Brianna Gallicchio said she’s been homeless for a few months and having a space she can come to like this is a blessing. She said she may have been in a dangerous position without this and if shelters were full.

“Across the street outside or somewhere within the catholic community,” she said about where she’d be without this warming center.

Gallicchio isn’t the only one in this spot. Others at the center said they may have had to sleep in a tent outdoors. But she and others know how dangerous these conditions can be.

Gallicchio said people need to remember their safety and look for the help that is available.

“Get you a warm, safe place. Friends, family, make friends if you need to. Just do anything you need to to stay safe,” she said.

The center in Newport will be open through noon on Monday. Anyone looking for help can call for the Holy Spirit Parish Center at 859-479-4773.