Lacey United Methodist Church Opens Doors as Shelter

The Lacey United Methodist Church has opened its doors as a shelter.

Residents of Lacey are welcomed at the church, which became a shelter this morning, Pastor Linda Applegate said.

The police as well as Superintendent Dr. Sandra Brower have been notified and directed to send anyone who is seeking last minute evacuation or shelter to the Methodist church, Applegate said.

So far, a few families are at the church, she said.

“We’re making apple crisp,” Applegate said

The church has a generator, blankets, shower facilities, toiletries, food and water, she said. But those who plan to go to the church should bring bedding or an air mattress.

The shelter is pet friendly, she said.

The parking lot can also be used to park vehicles, she said.

“We’re doing a lot of praying, especially for those folks we’ve seen who have already been affected,” Applegate said. “We’re just praying it won’t get any worse.”

The Lacey United Methodist Church opened as a shelter during Hurricane Irene as well.

The church is located at 203 Lacey Road in Forked River. For more information call 609-693-5222.

According to Municipal Clerk and Township Administrator Veronica Laureigh, as of 10 a.m., public shelter locations open included: 

• Brackman Middle School in Barnegat
• Jackson Liberty High School in Jackson
• Southern Regional High School in Manahawkin
• Pine Belt Arena in Toms River
• Pinelands Regional High School in Tuckerton