As Memorial Day approaches, residents of the District can expect a mix of open services and adjusted schedules. The MPDC announced that while many employees are off to observe the holiday next Monday, crucial operations and facilities will maintain their vigil to serve the community's needs, notably for those most vulnerable.
Homeless shelters and essential behavioral health services will operate without interruption. The New York Avenue Men’s Shelter, 801 East Men's Shelter, Adams Place Men’s Shelter, Emery Men’s Shelter, Pat Handy Women’s Shelter, Harriet Tubman Women’s Shelter, and the Living Life Alternatives LGBTQ+ Shelter will all remain open 24 hours. For those seeking refuge, wristbands will be provided and must be worn inside the facilities. In addition, the Downtown Day Services Center will welcome visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Zoe's Doors Youth Drop-In Center will continue to provide a safe space for youth around the clock.
For mental health support, the DC Department of Behavioral Health offers a lifeline via the 988 crisis hotline that individuals can call at any time. According to the MPD's announcement, The DC Stabilization Center and the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) are two additional resources available to support those facing substance use disorders or psychiatric emergencies. The Community Response Team also provides 24/7 assistance for adults in crisis.
The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is set to keep outdoor pools and spray parks operating from 10 am to 6 pm throughout the weekend and on Memorial Day itself. Outdoor parks, playgrounds, athletic courts, and fields will also be accessible to the public, and all scheduled events will proceed as planned. However, the Benning Road Transfer Station remains closed for renovations, and, Fort Totten Transfer Station will not open its doors to the public on Monday but will resume services next Tuesday.
Residents will need to adjust their calendars for sanitation services as Monday's collections will slide to the following day. This shift in the collection schedule will continue through to Saturday, as clarified in the details provided by the MPDC. For additional outdoor activities, detailed information on outdoor pools and spray parks is available on the DPR website, ensuring residents have ample opportunity to enjoy the holiday, all while understanding the changes to other municipal services.
