Cooling Center provides relief from heat

The recent summer temperatures have been brutal for all in the Branson Lakes area, but one local nonprofit is helping area residents beat the heat.

Branson's House of Hope operates as a warming center, sheltering people from bitter cold nights. In the summer, however, it is transformed into a Cooling Center, providing much-needed relief on the hottest of days. As of press time, the Cooling Center has been open approximately 14 days, and House of Hope anticipates being open several more days before the summer temperatures subside.

"The Center opens when there is a heat advisory issued by KY3 or the projected temperatures reach 95 degrees during the day," explained House of Hope's Alex Sprinkle. "When the Cooling Center operates, we are open at 9 a.m. and close by 4 p.m."

The main purpose of the Cooling Center is to offer a safe place for anyone to escape the dangerous temperatures, but House of Hope guests receive so much more during their visits.

"Guests are offered breakfast, lunch and several snacks throughout the day," Sprinkle noted. "There is a shower facility and laundry facility guests are able to take advantage of, as well. Many guests watch TV, take naps, play games and build community."

House of Hope hosts an average of 20 to 25 people on the summer's hottest days. Most, according to Sprinkle, are individuals, although families are always welcomed.

"The dangerous temperatures can impact everyone, not just those that experience housing instability," said Sprinkle. "The Cooling Center is a space for everyone to enjoy. This includes those without adequate cooling systems in their house, or those who would enjoy a warm breakfast and community."

The future of the Cooling Center was threatened in the early summer, when House of Hope's air conditioning unit failed, as temperatures began to climb.

"The unit continued to freeze up, causing it to stall and become inoperable. As you can imagine, it is difficult to have a Cooling Center when the AC doesn't work," Sprinkle explained. "We posted on social media our desperate need for a new system—one we could rely on and use for years to come. Within two weeks, we had $10,000 raised to cover the costs. A generous church partner, another nonprofit partner, and several community members quickly helped us raise the necessary funds. Jerry's Heating and Cooling came in and installed our new unit. It's working well and we are so thankful. House of Hope is a community driven organization."

The majority of House of Hope's funding, for emergencies and for day-to-day expenses, comes from the generous businesses, churches and individuals in our community. Some donate funds, while others volunteer to help House of Hope.

"Our organization truly is an example of people helping people," said Sprinkle. "The community can drop by to see how they can get connected. We are so thankful for people who are willing to donate their time and talents to love on others. House of Hope is so grateful for the Branson community. We have watched over and over how willing individuals are to step up and care for others. Thank you for working alongside us to love on those we serve."