County compiles winter resource guide for residents, focusing on access

Adams County is sharing essential contact and service information for residents needing help with government services, library access, safety updates, and food or community assistance. The guide is intended to help people connect quickly to the courthouse and auditor, public libraries, law enforcement non emergency lines, road and school closing notices, and volunteer run food pantries including the Community Care Center in Manchester.

For residents who must complete legal or property matters, the county courthouse and auditor maintain public phone lines and physical addresses for in person and phone assistance. Call ahead to confirm required documentation and office hours before traveling during winter conditions. Many routine requests can be resolved by phone or online to reduce exposure to cold weather and transportation barriers.

Adams County Public Library branches are operating with set hours and winter program tips that help families and older adults stay connected. Libraries provide warm public spaces, internet access for telehealth and benefit applications, and programming that supports children and caregivers. Check branch hours before visiting and ask staff about alternatives such as curbside pickup or digital resources when travel is unsafe.

Public safety and road conditions affect access to services. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office lists non emergency contact information for reporting safety concerns and for information about local closures. Residents should monitor the county website, official social media channels, and local radio for emergency closings and road advisories that may affect travel to clinics, food distribution sites, and workplaces.

Basic steps to access food pantries and community assistance include calling providers to confirm hours, bringing proof of residency and identification if requested, and planning for alternate transportation if roads are poor. The Community Care Center in Manchester is cited as a local volunteer run provider serving households in need. Smaller volunteer organizations across the county also offer meal and supply distributions, often operating on limited volunteer capacity during severe weather.

These practical contacts and service directions matter to public health and community resilience. Reducing missed medical appointments, preventing food insecurity, and limiting unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions protects older adults, people with chronic illness, and low income families. Residents are urged to call ahead, use online resources where available, and rely on local library and community organizations for support when winter conditions make routine access difficult.