Vanderbilt Opens Community Warming Shelter

University provides safe, warm space for faculty, staff, students and community members during winter storm power outages.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:47pm

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Following a recent winter storm and widespread power outages, Vanderbilt University is opening the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center to faculty, staff, students and members of the Nashville and Middle Tennessee community in need of a warm place to rest and recharge. The center will be open with amenities like warm drinks, snacks, showers, and family-friendly activities.

Why it matters

The winter storm caused significant power outages across the region, leaving many without heat or electricity. Vanderbilt's decision to open its facilities as a community warming shelter provides a critical resource for those affected, ensuring access to basic necessities and a safe space during the extreme weather.

The details

The David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center will be open from 6am to 11pm on Thursday, January 29 and 6am to 10pm on Friday, January 30. Visitors can warm up indoors, charge devices, enjoy warm drinks and snacks, take showers, and participate in family-friendly activities like table tennis, story time, mindfulness sessions, and more. Parking on campus will be available and no ticketing charges will be incurred.

  • The warming shelter will be open on Thursday, January 29 from 6am to 11pm.
  • The warming shelter will be open on Friday, January 30 from 6am to 10pm.

The players

Vanderbilt University

A private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee that is opening its David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center as a community warming shelter during the winter storm.

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What’s next

The warming shelter will remain open as long as needed to support the community during the winter storm and power outages.

The takeaway

Vanderbilt University's decision to open its facilities as a community warming shelter during extreme weather demonstrates the institution's commitment to supporting its local community and providing essential resources in times of crisis.