With dangerously high temperatures forecasted in the coming days, the City of Canton is partnering with Refuge of Hope and the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) to provide designated cooling centers and free transportation for residents in need.
“With the intense heat expected to impact our area, the safety of our residents is a top priority,” Mayor William V. Sherer II said in a statement. “We’re grateful to our community partners for stepping up once again to support our neighbors during these challenging weather conditions.”
Two cooling centers will be available:
Refuge of Hope, 715 Second St NE, Canton Saturday, June 21: 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sunday, June 22: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday, June 23: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 24: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Guests must enter through Door #4. Water and food will be available. Garaux Shelter, 3801 13th St SW, Canton Monday, June 23: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 24: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Guests must enter through the main entrance. Water will be provided.
SARTA will offer free rides to the cooling centers. Riders can board any regular route to the Cornerstone Transit Center on Cherry Avenue SE and inform the driver they are headed to a cooling center. No fare will be charged. Passengers traveling to Garaux Shelter should take Route #113.
For those needing transportation outside of SARTA’s operating hours, assistance is available by calling Canton City Dispatch at 330-649-5800.
Officials encourage all residents—especially seniors, children, and individuals with health conditions—to take precautions during the heatwave and seek relief if needed.
