As cold snaps grip Arlington, local shelters are prepping for an influx of residents seeking respite from the frigid conditions, and the city's emergency weather shelter plan is now in full swing. According to the City of Arlington website, the plan was activated today and will potentially extend through Sunday, Jan. 28, depending on the mercy of the weather.
In response to the severe chill, the Arlington Life Shelter and the Salvation Army are opening their doors to people without a place to stay, their protocols ensure guests receive a warm meal and a safe place to sleep, though space is limited with the Arlington Life Shelter announcing availability for only 10 individuals, providing a safe haven for five women and five men. The Life Shelter also requires ID for check-in, with police drop-offs as an exception; intake begins this afternoon from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and meals are indeed on the menu for those seeking their services.
The Salvation Army, sited at 712 West Abram St., invites those in need with intake scheduled for this evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and as with the other shelter, meals will be provided to guests; police drop-offs after hours are permitted as exceptions at this location.
Homeless individuals with pets aren't forgotten in the cold, the Arlington Animal Services Shelter is willing to accommodate pets, capacity permitting. Meanwhile, community members eager to lend a hand during these cold spells may do so by volunteering through the Salvation Army, or by donating essentials such as blankets, hand warmers, and hats, because these items are vital for keeping the less fortunate warm during perilous weather conditions, and individuals are urged to donate directly to the city's shelters or partnering agencies.
Arlington has set up an alert system for residents to stay informed on weather-related shelter availability; by texting ARLCOLD to 877-799-4950, subscribers will receive notifications about the activation of inclement weather shelters. Those already enrolled need not re-register, ensuring a continuity of communication in these trying times.
