Donation drive launched in Dallas as Fair Park shelter opens to protect unsheltered neighbors from freezing temperatures

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas is stepping up emergency support for residents experiencing homelessness as bitterly cold temperatures are expected to grip the area for the next several days. City officials announced that Dallas, working in partnership with Austin Street Center, has activated a temporary inclement weather shelter at Fair Park’s Automobile Building, giving unsheltered individuals a safer place to go when conditions outside become dangerous.

The city said the shelter is meant to serve Dallas’ most vulnerable neighbors during the cold snap, but it also comes with urgent needs. With more people expected to seek warmth and safety, supplies are needed to help meet basic needs such as food, warm clothing, and hygiene items.

Where to Donate and What Items Are Needed

Residents who want to help are being encouraged to donate supplies, but city leaders stressed that donations cannot be accepted at the temporary shelter due to limited space. Instead, donations can be dropped off at Austin Street Center, located at 1717 Jeffries Street, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Those who want to give in another way can also make cash donations online through Austin Street Center’s donation page.

The requested donation items include:

• Non-perishable food items

• Men’s clothing items like coats, socks, gloves, scarves, and hats

• Women’s clothing items like coats, socks, gloves, scarves, and hats

• Personal hygiene products

• Blankets

City officials said these items will directly support the people coming in from the cold, many of whom may not have reliable access to warm gear or basic supplies.

For more information, residents can contact Austin Street Center at (214) 428-4242 or email [email protected].

In addition to Austin Street Center, the group OurCalling is also working with the city and @AustinStreetCenter to support the emergency response. Donations can also be dropped off at OurCalling, located at 1702 S Cesar Chavez Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215. More details about their cold weather support effort are available at OurCalling.org/cold.

As the cold weather settles in, city leaders are urging Dallas residents to consider giving what they can, reminding the community that even small donations can bring comfort, warmth, and relief to someone facing the harshest conditions outdoors.