As the chill of winter descends upon us, the residents of Hillsborough County who find themselves vulnerable to its biting cold have a beacon of hope: the local cold weather shelters are opening their doors. On nights forecasted by the National Weather Service to reach temperatures of 40 degrees or below, including wind chill, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., these shelters will serve as sanctuaries for those in need.
In a concerted community effort, the shelters are brought to life through the collaboration of Hillsborough County partnerships with faith-based entities, nonprofit organizations, and a host of volunteers dedicated to providing a warm bed and, in many instances, that all too human need for conversation; providing meals and assisting without the need for pre-registration, and offering transportation to those who otherwise wouldn't make it to the warmth of these havens.
Open to individuals, families, and especially those without homes or adequate heating, the shelters represent the community's gesture of solidarity in the face of frigid adversity. Information about shelter availability can be found on the Hillsborough County Cold Weather Shelters webpage or by contacting the County’s Customer Service Center. Potential partners can inquire about joining the effort by contacting the procurement services department.
Residents who wish to support these shelters can volunteer or donate items such as blankets and toiletries to provide additional comfort to those seeking refuge from the cold and the shelters provide food, mats, and blankets so bring only essentials like ID, medications, and cold-weather clothing, and leave behind large items and anything that could pose a risk including weapons, drugs, or alcohol; for those who wish to donate or volunteer, information is available through the Hillsborough County Homeless & Community Services department.
