City of Dallas partners with Austin Street Center to offer safe shelter during winter weather
Dallas, Texas – The Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) in Dallas has announced the activation of the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter (TIWS) to provide warm and safe shelter for individuals facing homelessness during freezing temperatures. The shelter will open on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, and will remain operational until overnight temperatures rise above freezing.
Shelter Location and Operations
The primary location for the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter is:
- Austin Street Center, 2929 Hickory Street, Dallas, TX, 75226
The Austin Street Center, a well-established partner of the city, will manage the shelter and oversee operations. Intake hours for individuals in need of shelter will begin at 3 p.m. on February 12.
Christine Crossley, Director of the Office of Homeless Solutions, emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring support for the city’s vulnerable residents:
“As we navigate the complexities of homelessness in our city, I want to express my gratitude for the support of our partners like Austin Street Center. The Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter reflects our commitment to ensuring everyone has access to a warm and safe place during these challenging times.”
Beyond Shelter Providing Resources for Stability
In addition to providing immediate shelter, the TIWS will serve as a hub for essential services. The goal is not only to offer warmth but also to connect individuals with vital resources that can assist them in transitioning to more stable living conditions.
Daniel Roby, CEO of Austin Street Center, highlighted the broader mission of the initiative:
“This activation is not just about providing temporary shelter; it’s an invaluable opportunity to connect with individuals experiencing homelessness and offer them essential services. By collaborating with the City of Dallas and other partners, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also paving the way for transformative support that can change lives for the better. Our goal is to ensure that everyone who seeks help finds not just warmth, but also a pathway to comprehensive care and resources.”
Additional Shelter and Support Options
While the TIWS will serve as a primary emergency shelter, individuals experiencing homelessness are also encouraged to seek assistance at other overnight shelter provider locations across the city.
However, not all individuals will choose to seek shelter. To support those who decline assistance, OHS will distribute cold weather survival packs. These packs will be available at recreational centers throughout the city and can also be requested in bulk by organizations or volunteers via email at [email protected].
As winter temperatures pose serious risks to unsheltered individuals, the City of Dallas continues to work with its partners to ensure no one is left without options for warmth and safety. The Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter initiative represents a critical step in providing not just emergency relief, but also long-term support for individuals in need.
