KINGSTON, N.Y. -- Ulster County representatives are taking steps to make sure that people in need can stay warm and safe in the midst of the latest winter storm.

The county's warming center has been open 24 hours a day for more than a week. Clinton Avenue United Methodist Church serves as the warming center. Representatives said the frigid temperatures have left them busier than normal, and they are ready in case more people come in. People have been donating hats and gloves, and the Red Cross has donated extra cots.

The county is also looking out for its elderly population. Due to the snow, Meals on Wheels, which provides meals to seniors in need at low or no cost, was canceled in Ulster County. Representatives said senior citizens in the program received extra meals in December in case they had to cancel because of the snow. People in the program will also get extra meals on Friday to make up for the cancellation.

The Office for the Aging also has HEAP applications at its office. The program gives people a chance to sign up for financial assistance to pay for heating if they know they will have trouble.