SALISBURY — Over the weekend, three Rowan County YMCAs opened their facilities to allow people without power to shower, recharge and fill up water jugs.

The service was offered to both members and nonmembers.

Two of the three branches lost power. J.F. Hurley Family YMCA lost power Thursday afternoon, and it was restored Friday afternoon. The facility stayed open by using an emergency generator.

Richard Reinholz, branch executive director, purchased $1,100 worth of fuel to replace what was used. 

The Saleeby Fisher YMCA East Rowan branch had power restored Friday morning. and the J. Fred Corriher Jr. YMCA South Rowan Branch never lost power.

After a 2002 ice storm, the three YMCAs were equipped to be emergency shelters.

Laurie Ward, YMCA development director, said some residents were surprised the YMCA welcomed people who lost power and were grateful. Some came to fill water jugs so they could flush toilets, she said.