Urgent: Cold Weather Shelters Ready to Save Lives in Okaloosa Staff Reports January 25, 2026 10:25 am Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Okaloosa County In Brief: What: Cold weather shelter openings When: January 25 through February 1, 2026 Where: Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Crestview, Okaloosa County Why: To protect vulnerable residents during dangerously cold temperatures OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Cold weather shelters across Okaloosa County are opening their doors to provide overnight protection for residents as temperatures drop this week. The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners announced multiple shelter locations in both North and South County, offering warm, safe spaces for individuals, families, seniors, and those experiencing homelessness. South County Shelters One Hopeful Place in Fort Walton Beach will operate nightly from Sunday, January 25, through Thursday, January 29, opening at 4 p.m. The shelter serves adults aged 18 and older. Transportation will be available from 205 Shell Avenue beginning at 3:15 p.m. Sunday, with two bus trips scheduled. Participants may bring backpacks and essential overnight items. Bikes and belongings may be secured on site, but wagons, bicycles, and suitcases will not be allowed on the bus. Return transportation to Shell Avenue is scheduled for Friday, January 30, at 10 a.m. Generations Church in Niceville will open Sunday night, January 25, with check-in available from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This location will serve families with children and elderly residents. Transportation for single adults will be provided to One Hopeful Place. North County Shelter The Crestview Area Shelter for the... Read More