St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge Opens Cooling Centers During Extreme Heat

St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge will open emergency Cooling Centers this weekend to help neighbors find relief from dangerous heat.

Extreme heat is expected across the Greater Baton Rouge area, with the National Weather Service and local emergency officials warning that these conditions can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults and those without access to air conditioning.

In response, St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge will activate Cooling Centers when temperatures reach 95°F with a heat index of 101°F or higher.

The Cooling Centers will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. whenever temperatures reach 95°F and the heat index is 101°F or above.

These Cooling Centers are here to help people at higher risk during extreme heat, such as those experiencing homelessness, seniors, people with medical conditions, and anyone who does not have a safe, cool place to stay.

"Extreme heat can quickly become dangerous, especially for our most vulnerable neighbors," said Sunnie Johnson-Lain, President and CEO of St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge. "Opening our facilities as Cooling Centers allows us to provide a safe place for people to escape the heat and access support when conditions become hazardous."

The One Stop, located at 153 North 17th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, will also serve as a weekday cooling station, open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This partnership ensures our neighbors have access to cooling centers seven days a week during periods of extreme heat.

We encourage everyone to keep an eye on the weather, drink plenty of water, avoid spending time outside during the hottest hours, and check on neighbors who might need help. If you need relief from the heat, find a safe, cool place.

For updates on Cooling Center openings, follow St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge on social media.