As temperatures take a dive this weekend, Austin residents experiencing homelessness can seek refuge in Cold Weather Shelters activated by the city. CBS Austin reports that the shelters opened Saturday night as temperatures were expected to hover in the high 20s. Families with children and unaccompanied minors are offered hotel lodging during such activations.
Those in need of overnight shelter should register between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at One Texas Center, located at 505 Barton Springs Road. With transportation provided by CapMetro, seekers of shelter headed to undisclosed locations for operational and safety reasons. According to the city's policy, families and pets may stay together at these shelters, with meals provided and separate sleeping areas for men and women.
The activation of these shelters is part of a response plan Austin has had in place, getting triggered when the forecast suggests overnight temperatures will plummet to 35 degrees or lower, as reported by KXAN. This policy was last updated in 2024, helping the city provide timely aid to its vulnerable populations.
Due to persistent cold forecasts, the City of Austin has announced that the shelter services will continue through Sunday. For individuals without the means to pay, transportation to the registration point served by bus lines 1, 7, 10, 20, 30, 105, and 801 will be free, ensuring all those in need have a chance to escape the cold. To learn more, individuals can reach out to the Cold Weather Shelter Infoline at 512-972-5055 or check Austin's emergency updates online.
