St. Lucie County Opens Cold Weather Shelter for 3 Nights

Temperatures expected to dip into the 40s early next week

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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St. Lucie County officials have announced they will open a cold-weather shelter at the Percy Peek Gym starting Sunday, February 23rd, due to forecasted low temperatures in the 40s. The shelter will be open for three nights, with free transportation provided by Area Regional Transit (ART) to several pickup locations.

Why it matters

With South Florida and the Treasure Coast experiencing an unusually cold snap, the opening of this temporary cold weather shelter aims to provide a warm, safe place for residents who may not have adequate heating or shelter during the colder temperatures.

The details

The cold-weather shelter at the Percy Peek Gym will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday nights. ART will provide free transportation to the shelter from several locations, including the Port St. Lucie Intermodal Station, Fort Pierce Intermodal Facility, and other bus stops and community centers.

  • The cold-weather shelter will open on Sunday, February 23, 2026 at 5 p.m.
  • The shelter will also be open on Monday, February 24, 2026 and Tuesday, February 25, 2026, closing each morning at 8 a.m.

The players

St. Lucie County

The local government authority that is opening the temporary cold weather shelter in response to forecasted low temperatures.

Area Regional Transit (ART)

The public transportation agency providing free rides to the cold weather shelter from several pickup locations.

Pastor Hazel Hoylman

A contact person with the organization In the Image of Christ, who can provide more information about the cold weather shelter.

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What they’re saying

“For more information about the emergency cold weather shelter at Percy Peek Gym, contact Pastor Hazel Hoylman with In the Image of Christ at 772-359-9653.”

— Pastor Hazel Hoylman, Contact, In the Image of Christ (wptv.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Walker Reed Quinn to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This cold weather shelter opening highlights the importance of community preparedness and support for vulnerable populations during periods of extreme weather, ensuring all residents have access to safe, warm shelter during colder temperatures.