CLARIFICATION: For local emergency alerts, Dawson County now uses a geo-sensing software that pushes flash report notifications to those with cell phones. People don’t have to register to receive notifications.  

With temperatures predicted to drop below freezing during the first full week of the new year, it’s no surprise weather is on the mind of many Dawson-area locals.  

“We’ve been thinking about that, too,” said Dawson County Family Connection Administrative Specialist Layla McBrayer.  

In recent months, McBrayer has helped coordinate a communitywide effort between Dawson County nonprofits, churches and other community members for a future emergency warming center.  

They’ve contacted local churches about hosting a possible warming center and are in the process of gathering more warming-related supplies, McBrayer said.  

Once the time draws closer to the potential inclement weather, local emergency management and community organizations will have a better idea of the forecast and how exactly to respond, she added.  

Should a local warming center or centers become available, they would communicate with local emergency management. Dawson County officials, Family Connection and DCN would then share details with the public. 

The Dawson County Humane Society has agreed to provide a trailer on site for up to eight pets which includes crating and food, according to the county government’s most recent newsletter.  

In November 2024, Dawson County’s Board of Commissioners voted to approve the request to shift $50,000 in remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds to help pay for local emergency shelter-related expenses like cots, blankets, or sleeping bags.  

Dawson County Emergency Services has a mobile trailer with basic supplies on hand ready to move to a warming center if necessary.  

Resources 

Dawson County Family Connection recently had card-size versions of its cold weather resource directory made for area locals. People can pick up the cards from Family Connection’s office at 15 Medical Center Dr., next to Good Shepherd Clinic, during the nonprofit’s business hours.  

Nonprofit The Place’s Director of Client Services Paige Whalen gave DCN a snapshot of cold-weather resources it could offer. 

The Place serves people in Dawson and Forsyth counties. The nonprofit’s Dawsonville location is at 829 Ga. 9, just north of the city. 

The Place has tents and sleeping bags for those in need, as well as free coats and hats for clients at both of its locations. They can provide vouchers for warm weather clothing or similar items, Whalen said.  

They can also connect people in need with space heaters and financial assistance for utilities. Ninth District Opportunity can also help with utilities bills.