Wilkes Community Connection

01/24/2026

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wilkes County Opens Emergency Shelter Ahead of Incoming Winter Storm

Wilkesboro, NC — January 23, 2026

Wilkes County Government will open an emergency shelter at the Wilkes County Agricultural Center, located at 416 Executive Drive, Wilkesboro, NC 28697, beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

The shelter is being opened in response to an incoming winter storm and is intended for residents who have been impacted by storm-related conditions, including loss of power, heating, or unsafe living conditions due to extreme cold and winter weather. The emergency shelter is available for community members who are not medically dependent and need a safe, warm place during the storm. Individuals requiring ongoing medical care or powered medical equipment are encouraged to seek shelter at an appropriate medical facility to ensure their needs are safely met.

The shelter will provide a warm, safe location for individuals and families in need. Residents are encouraged to bring essential personal items such as medications, toiletries, bedding, and any necessary medical equipment. Pets will be accepted; however they will be housed at the Wilkes County Animal Shelter, which is within ¼ mile of the facility.

Wilkes County officials urge residents to monitor local weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions, and check on elderly neighbors and those with special needs.
Additional updates will be provided as conditions warrant.

01/24/2026

His Light Ministries, conveniently located beside Arby's on Curtis Bridge Road in North Wilkesboro, will open its doors to the community starting tomorrow, January 24, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

Pastor Michael and the dedicated team of volunteers will provide snacks and beverages throughout the day, as well as a hot, nutritious meal every evening.

**Please note that His Light Ministries, its staff, and volunteers assume no responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items while on the premises.**

Donations of food, drinks, and essential items are welcomed and can be delivered to the church after 4:00 p.m. We encourage everyone to prioritize their safety and well-being, and we wish you God's blessings.

01/23/2026

Until further notice, Hospitality House Northwest NC will be operating under Extreme Weather Protocol to shelter anyone in need who shows up at our Brook Hollow Complex for Night-by-Night shelter, daytime warming, and all meals.

For individuals who are trespassed and sleeping outdoors, we have FREE bus vouchers available on the Sunway Charter route to get you to a safe, warm location. Call (828) 264-1237.

Food Needs: If you can get to our Brook Hollow Complex, the Food Pantry is OPEN 12pm - 4 pm every day.

Questions? Emergency Housing Needs? Family Housing Needs? Call (828) 264-1237 (24 hours a day!)

Please don’t risk your life, we are here to HELP! We are HERE for YOU!"

01/23/2026