As the chill of winter approaches, the City of Austin is taking actionable steps to provide warmth to those in need, activating Cold Weather Shelters on Tuesday, Dec. 10, in response to forecasts that anticipate a significant temperature drop into the mid-30s overnight, according to an official announcement made by the city. Those seeking refuge from the cold can register for shelter space at One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Road, between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
For individuals living without shelter, these drop-in temperatures are more than a mere discomfort, they present a perilous hurdle in the daily struggle for survival, and Austin is responding by leveraging its Homeless Strategy Office to activate shelters up to one day in advance, ensuring no later than 9 a.m. that a safe haven is available when temperatures at Camp Mabry are expected to plummet to 35 degrees or below. Partnering with CapMetro, the city ensures transportation from One Texas Center to the designated shelter locations is accessible, and the service remains committed to providing after-hours embarkation for those who might miss the initial registration window.
Inclusivity remains at the forefront of the city's initiative; animals are permitted as long as they remain non-aggressive and leashed, and both meals and separate accommodations for women and couples are provided, while families with children and unaccompanied minors are eligible for hotel vouchers. Registration particulars and CWS activation details are available to the public, who can stay informed by calling the CWS Hotline at 512-972-5055 or following AustinTexas.gov/Alerts for emergency information, updates are published in multiple languages as the city recognizes the spectrum of needs in its diverse population.
