As the summer temperatures in Arlington start to intensify, so does the city's response, creating respite for those most vulnerable to the heat, Arlington's homeless population. The City of Arlington, Texas has designated several locations as official cooling stations, including the Arlington Life Shelter and The Salvation Army, providing much-needed relief from the swelter.
Adhering to the city's concern, the Arlington Public Libraries have opened their doors wider to beat the heat, the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, along with other branches, welcomes those seeking to escape the scorching temperatures with seating and water fountains available during generous hours of operation.
For individuals and families needing immediate cooling, The Salvation Army, located at 712 W. Abram St., offers an indoor reprieve from noon to 6 p.m. on weekdays, accommodating up to three guests at a time for periods of 30 minutes, with the potential for extenuating circumstances to grant longer or family-wide relief, as well as providing water to fend off dehydration. Similarly, the Arlington Life Shelter, at 325 W. Division St., introduces an outdoor hydration station, available Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until the evening's threshold at 7 p.m.
More than merely announcing, the City of Arlington streamlines communication regarding shelter options in times of severe weather with its inclement weather text subscription service, an easy sign-up process involving a simple text—ARLCOLD sent to 877-799-4950—a small step for a larger assurance in knowing where to find sanctuary when the weather turns hostile whether it be torrid heat or another elemental fury.
