A brutal winter storm sweeping throughout Texas has left millions without power or water during historically low temperatures, heavy ice and snow. In Dallas County, it has been reported that 280,000 Oncor customers are without power and the electricity infrastructure had exceeded capacity. 

Warming center in Bachman Lake provides relief

In response, the Buckner Family Hope Center at Bachman Lake has opened its doors as a warming center to help residents in the community who need respite from the cold. Yesterday, the center was open for four hours and provided warmth and snacks to 45 people. 

“It has been a hard year for the families in our community,” said Ricardo Brambila, director of the Family Hope Center. “They come into the warming center anxious. They keep their heads up, but they have sadness in their hearts. They’re so thankful to find relief from the cold.” 

In addition to warm shelter and electricity to charge phones, water, coffee and snacks are being provided. The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation has generously provided funding to serve food to those seeking warmth at the warming enter. 

Bachman Lake community works together to get through crisis

About 65% of the families Buckner serves in Bachman Lake are affected by the power outages, but the Family Hope Center warming center is open to anyone in the community who needs relief. 

“We are all in this together,” Brambila said. “This is our community, and we want to be a good neighbor. Families are hurting, especially children. When the families are here, we hope they see the compassion and love we have for them. We want them to leave with hope.” 

Buckner is coordinating with Dallas Independent School District Board Member Joe Carreon, City Council Member Omar Narvaez and the Dallas Police Department to offer the service.

Do you need relief from the cold?

Spaces are available by appointment only. Please contact Ruth at 214-263-5386 or Aimee at 469-691-0062 to schedule an appointment. 

Social distancing and masks are being used at the Family Hope Center warming center.