In response to the forecasted high heat index for the week of June 17 – June 21, the City of Canton has partnered with the Refuge of Hope, the J. Babe Stearn Center, and the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) to provide cooling centers and transportation for those in need.
“It’s important members of our community have a place to go during this time of projected high temperatures,” said City of Canton Mayor William V. Sherer II. “We appreciate all of our community partners willing to open their doors to those in need.”
The cooling centers will operate as follows:
- Refuge of Hope: 715 Second St NE, Canton, OH 44704. Hours of operation: Monday, June 17 – Friday, June 21 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Guests must enter through door #4. Water and food will be available.
- J. Babe Stearn Center: 2628 13th St SW, Canton, OH 44710. Hours of operation: Monday, June 17 – Friday, June 21 from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Guests enter through the main door.
To assist with transportation, SARTA will provide rides to the cooling centers. Individuals can access SARTA from any regular bus stop to the Cornerstone Transit Center on Cherry Avenue SE. Riders should inform drivers they are en route to a cooling center, and there will be no fee. If traveling to the J. Babe Stearn Center, use route #113.
If transportation is needed when SARTA is not available, residents are advised to call the City of Canton dispatch at 330.649.5800.