Detroit Enhances Shelter and Respite Services Amidst Cold Weather Emergency
As the City of Detroit braces for plummeting temperatures, authorities have announced a series of measures to protect residents from the severe cold. With wind chills expected to fall into single digits, Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo has declared a cold weather health emergency, prompting the activation of additional shelter and respite options for the community.
Overnight Shelter Availability
The City, in collaboration with Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, has established an overnight stand-by shelter at 13130 Woodward Avenue. This facility will remain open until January 21 at noon and caters to all household types, including single men, women, and families with children.
Furthermore, the Pope Francis Center will provide a dedicated shelter for single adults at 2915 W. Hancock starting January 19 at 5 p.m., closing on January 21 at noon.
Access to Shelter Services
Residents can access these temporary overnight shelters without a referral by walking in or contacting the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520, which operates 24/7. Those needing assistance after hours can visit a police precinct to connect with outreach teams for overnight services. For more information, visit https://camdetroit.org/.
Daytime Respite Centers
The City has also designated several recreation centers and public library branches as respite locations to offer warmth during daytime hours. While all recreation centers will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, exceptions include the Adams Butzel Complex and Coleman A. Young Recreation Center, open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on January 19.
Detroit Public Library branches are also available during regular hours, although they will close on January 19 for the holiday.
Emergency Assistance and Resources
The City of Detroit ensures over 1,700 emergency shelter and drop-in center beds are available through local partnerships for those facing housing crises. Residents can call the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520 for immediate assistance.
In case of emergencies such as domestic violence, individuals should reach out to Michigan’s Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-866-864-2338. Those experiencing a mental health crisis can contact 9-8-8 or the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network’s 24-Hour Helpline at 1-800-241-4949.
Support for Long-Term Housing Stability
Detroit’s commitment to addressing homelessness extends beyond immediate shelter. The Detroit Housing Services office, along with the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine, supports residents with housing emergencies through services like finding affordable housing, financial assistance for moving costs, and employment support to maintain housing stability.
Residents at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness are encouraged to contact the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520 to connect with essential resources and avoid becoming unhoused.
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