Office of Homeless Solutions Activates Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter
DALLAS - The Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) will activate the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter (TIWS) on Saturday, January 18, 2025. In accordance with Chapter 45 of the City Code, the shelter will remain operational until overnight temperatures are forecasted to exceed freezing.
The primary location for the TIWS site is:
ยท Fair Park Grand Place, 3701 Grand Ave., Dallas, TX, 75210.
Austin Street Center will manage the site as the City's external partner, executing TIWS activities and providing enhanced services. On Saturday, January 18, intake hours will be from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Beginning Sunday, January 19, 2025, intake hours will be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
"As our city grapples with the challenges of homelessness, it is imperative that we unite as a community to provide support for those who are most in need," said Christine Crossley, Director of the Office of Homeless Solutions. "The opening of the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter at Fair Park is more than just a facility; it symbolizes hope and compassion. By partnering with organizations like Austin Street Center and Fair Park, we are making significant strides to ensure everyone has access to a safe and warm place. Our efforts are a step toward transforming lives and reaffirming our commitment to our community's well-being."
"Dallas County Health and Human Services is pleased to assist the City of Dallas, Austin Street, and other partners with managing infection control (influenza) in the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter (TIWS). This is an important part of keeping some of our most vulnerable community members healthy and safe. Some of the best practices that we are providing and assisting with include: 1) Surveillance and Early Detection by helping conduct daily symptom checks for residents and staff; 2) isolation of symptomatic individuals; 3) promoting frequent hand washing and cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces; 4) providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves; 5) Communication and Education through promoting cough etiquette, hand washing, and food safety; and 6) providing Flu and COVID vaccinations." - Dr. Philip Huang, MD, MPH, Director/Health Authority, Dallas County Health and Human Services Department (DCHHS).
"We are grateful to the City of Dallas and Fair Park for their unwavering support along with a host of other partners in providing a safe haven for our community's most vulnerable members," said Daniel Roby, CEO of Austin Street Center. "The activation of the Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter is not merely a response to cold temperatures; it is a gateway to transformative services that can change lives. With the invaluable collaboration of Dallas County Health and Human Services, we are proud to offer an on-site clinic to ensure that our guests receive not only warmth but also the healthcare they need.
"During our recent 11-day inclement weather shelter operation, our placement services made remarkable progress. We successfully accommodated 21 clients with shelter placements, diverted 22 individuals who are now no longer homeless, and placed 54 families-comprising approximately 200 individuals-into hotels. This initiative highlights the impact we can achieve when we work together. By connecting our unhoused population with supportive services, we are paving the way for a brighter future and underscoring our commitment to ending homelessness."
Additionally, individuals experiencing homelessness are encouraged to seek shelter at any of the City's existing overnight shelter provider locations. While seeking warm shelter is recommended, some individuals may decline assistance. To aid in their survival, cold weather packs will be available at recreational centers across the City and in bulk from OHS via [email protected].
For more information on how to Give Responsibly or to become a Friend of OHS and volunteer your time or services, please email [email protected].
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