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When the Allen Park school district opened one of its schools as a warming center for those who lost their power during last week’s ice storm, they weren’t sure how things were going to go.

It turned out to be a blessing for many people, in a lot of ways that volunteers didn’t anticipate.

At 6 p.m. Thursday, Allen Park Public Schools opened Bennie Elementary School, 17401 Champaign Road, as a temporary safe place to warm up and charge devices. The school’s gymnasium and cafeteria was open, with power strips spaced throughout those areas.

“If you need some exercise to help pass the time, you can walk the halls or play some basketball in the gym,” school Supt. Michael Darga said in a districtwide voice blast on Thursday. “Using our Wi-Fi, you can log in and watch a movie on your device in the comfort of our cafeteria.”

The school remained open 24 hours a day throughout the weekend, staffed by school district employees who volunteered their time. They worked in rotations to provide the community with building access.

Robin Partrich, head custodian at Bennie Elementary and president of AFSCME Local 142 and 142B, said the decision to use their only building with power, internet and Wi-Fi as a warming/charging/virtual work center was very well received. Neighbors were grateful to have a warm place to visit, get a cup of coffee or juice, a snack, for their children to safely play, and get the mental support they needed.

“We had several visitors virtually working, including a nurse,” Partrich said. “There are all the things that we don’t think about when power is lost. It is more than the loss of heat. It can be life altering. One of our guests found monumental relief in having a place to recharge her electric wheelchair.”

Staff volunteers said they found this endeavor to be emotionally rewarding, as well as a humbling experience. Volunteer teachers shared their room resources, from games to coloring books to chairs.

“Food service volunteers lead the way to ensure no child or adult went hungry,” Partrich said. “Maintenance volunteers kept the areas clean, disinfected and supplies well stocked. It is amazing to work with such generous and amazing people who thought out of the box, brought baked goods to share, gave words of encouragement, and hugs when needed while providing a place of beautiful, kind hospitality.”

“Seeing the community come together to support each other during a time of need was incredible,” Kristie Lauth said.

Maureen Klein called it “a true joy” to spend time at the Bennie warming center.

“I am so grateful to work in a district that literally opens its doors to our neighbors in need,” she said. “My highlight was talking with the people who came to warm up and charge their devices. They were so grateful for everything Bennie and APPS were doing and many were surprised that we were all volunteering our time.”

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