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Fair Park shelter activates as freezing weather threatens vulnerable communities in Dallas

Dallas, Texas – As freezing temperatures approach, the Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) in Dallas has announced the activation of the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter (TIWS) on Saturday, January 18, 2025. This emergency initiative will remain operational until overnight temperatures are forecasted to exceed freezing, providing critical relief to the city’s homeless population during harsh winter conditions.

Shelter Operations at Fair Park Grand Place

The primary location for the TIWS is the Fair Park Grand Place, located at 3701 Grand Ave., Dallas, TX. The Austin Street Center will manage the site, coordinating shelter activities and offering enhanced support services. Intake hours on the opening day will run from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., while from Sunday, January 19, 2025, onward, intake hours will extend from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Christine Crossley, Director of OHS, emphasized the importance of community efforts to combat homelessness:
“As our city grapples with the challenges of homelessness, it is imperative that we unite as a community to provide support for those who are most in need. The opening of the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter at Fair Park is more than just a facility; it symbolizes hope and compassion. By partnering with organizations like Austin Street Center and Fair Park, we are making significant strides to ensure everyone has access to a safe and warm place. Our efforts are a step toward transforming lives and reaffirming our commitment to our community’s well-being.”

Health and Safety Measures in Collaboration with Dallas County Health

The Dallas County Health and Human Services Department (DCHHS) will play a vital role in managing infection control at the TIWS. Dr. Philip Huang, Director of DCHHS, outlined the best practices being implemented to safeguard both guests and staff:
“Some of the best practices that we are providing and assisting with include: 1) Surveillance and Early Detection by helping conduct daily symptom checks for residents and staff; 2) isolation of symptomatic individuals; 3) promoting frequent hand washing and cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces; 4) providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves; 5) Communication and Education through promoting cough etiquette, hand washing, and food safety; and 6) providing Flu and COVID vaccinations.”

Collaborative Efforts Lead to Transformative Services

Daniel Roby, CEO of Austin Street Center, highlighted the success of prior initiatives, including the recent 11-day shelter operation that secured housing placements for individuals and families:
“During our recent 11-day inclement weather shelter operation, our placement services made remarkable progress. We successfully accommodated 21 clients with shelter placements, diverted 22 individuals who are now no longer homeless, and placed 54 families—comprising approximately 200 individuals—into hotels. This initiative highlights the impact we can achieve when we work together. By connecting our unhoused population with supportive services, we are paving the way for a brighter future and underscoring our commitment to ending homelessness.”

Additional Assistance for the Homeless Community

For those who may decline shelter services, OHS is distributing cold weather packs through recreational centers across the city and in bulk upon request at [email protected]. These packs include essential items to aid survival during freezing conditions.

The activation of the TIWS is part of a larger commitment by the City of Dallas and its partners to ensure that the city’s most vulnerable residents receive the care, shelter, and services they need during extreme weather events. Through collaboration and community support, the city aims to not only address immediate needs but also create pathways toward long-term solutions to homelessness.

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