As the chill of winter sets in, the Allegheny County Department of Human Services has preemptively unveiled a set of initiatives to provide warmth and refuge for individuals facing homelessness. The comprehensive plan, which takes effect from November 15 through March 15, aims to bolster shelter capacity with an additional 105 beds and extend operating hours to offer continuous aid, as Allegheny County's press release reported.
Erin Dalton, director of DHS, emphasized the department's commitment to safety and care during the winter by stating, "Our goal is to ensure that no one has to spend a night out in the cold." She elaborated on the strategy to effectively operate without needing a Code Blue protocol, thus providing shelter and support services on more than just the most frigid nights. The plan includes expanding the operating hours of the Second Avenue Commons, with the Engagement Center set to re-open on October 29, offering anyone in need a place to turn from 7 AM to 7 PM every day of the year, as detailed by the county's press release.
The expanded network of shelters includes the Second Avenue Commons Overflow Shelter and others, with locations set to open their doors 24/7 from November 15th. Additionally, a new shelter in partnership with the Northside Partnership Project and Community Family Advocates will open by December 11th at the Community Resource Mall on Maple Avenue. Free transportation will be available each evening from Second Avenue Commons to simplify access to these facilities.
DHS is running the "500 in 500" campaign to find long-term housing for those in need and is asking property owners to help. Community members can donate winter items through the "Spread the Love" campaign at drop-off points. Additionally, Pittsburgh Mercy is collecting pet supplies for shelter residents with pets. You can find the complete list of drop-off locations and shelter details on the DHS website.
