Warming centers across North Texas are opening their doors to meet the growing demand for shelter.
RICHARDSON
The City of Richardson opened the lobby of the police department's administration building on Greenville Avenue as a place for people to come in out of the cold. That started at 5 p.m. Monday and city officials say that building will remain available until the weather improves and it's no longer needed.
Richardson is offering a similar service to people at Fire Station Number 3 and Fire Station Number 6. All three of those locations will have places for people to charge their phones and laptops.
DALLAS
After 900-bed Fair Park shelter reached capacity in just one day, the Austin Street Center stepped in as an overflow location. "It is our belief that everyone deserves access to protection from the elements, regardless of their circumstances," said interim City Manager Kimberly Tolbert.
Agencies Austin Street Center and OurCalling, which both operate shelters and serve the homeless community, are running the temporary shelter located at 3701 Grand Avenue at Fair Park, and now The Austin Street Center located at 1717 Jeffries St. This one is expected to be at least 75% full by Wednesday night.
People who would like to donate their time to the shelter can do so through Austin Street Center through their website.
FORT WORTH
Fort Worth is also working with nonprofits to help people stay safe during winter weather this week.
For the homeless, individuals can go to Presbyterian Night Shelter at 2400 Cypress St. or Union Gospel Mission at 1321 E. Lancaster Ave. Families can go to the Salvation Army campus at 1855 E. Lancaster Ave.
The city says it will be able to offer additional beds and transportation if any locations reach capacity.
During the day, people can visit community centers if they need a place to stay warm.
PLANO
In Plano, the Plano Overnight Warming Station is expecting to serve more than 100 people each night during the cold spell. However, its supply of coats and hygiene items is running low. The group is asking for donations of coats, sweatshirts, jeans, winter hats, and gloves - plus new socks and underwear. They also need new individual-sized hygiene items including razors, lotion, and deodorant.
The Plano Overnight Warming Station is a partnership between local faith communities, the city of Plano, East Plano Islamic Center, the Salvation Army, and other service groups. You can find out more about them on their website.
ALVARADO
The American Red Cross opened a warming shelter at First Baptist Church in Alvarado. It will be open Thursday and Friday nights for anyone who needs a warm place to stay.
Officials encouraged people to bring their own personal items, like pillows, blankets, and hygiene supplies. The shelter will be open until Friday at 7 p.m.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube