Detroit Launches Cold Weather Resources for Housing and Warmth
As temperatures plummet in Detroit, the city is rolling out comprehensive measures to ensure residents are shielded from the freezing conditions. From shelters to helplines, a variety of services are being made available to address housing security and warmth.
The Chief Public Health Officer, Denise Fair Razo, has officially declared a cold weather health emergency. As part of this initiative, respite locations at two recreation centers will be on standby for 24 hours. Starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, the Farwell Recreation Center and Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center will open their doors to provide refuge from the cold.
Warming Centers
Warming centers have been operational since early November, adding 100 emergency beds for those without homes. These centers offer overnight shelter, meals, showers, and housing services. Facilities such as Cass Community Social Services and Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries are pivotal in this effort, catering to families, women, and single males.
Access to Shelters
Detroit currently maintains over 1,200 shelter and warming center beds in collaboration with local partners, with plans to expand to over 1,400 beds by January 2025. The city employs a coordinated entry process for accessing these services. Residents needing shelter can reach out to the Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM) via the Housing Services Helpline at 866-313-2520 from Monday to Friday.
In-person assessments are also available at Cass Community Social Services and NOAH at Central during specific hours. For more details, visit camdetroit.org.
Helpline Resources
The Detroit Housing Services (DHS) office, along with the Resource Helpline, plays a crucial role in addressing housing emergencies. Since its inception, DHS has successfully placed over 3,200 residents in permanent housing. The helpline offers assistance with various housing issues, including securing affordable housing and resolving property conditions like lack of heating.
Residents can contact the Housing Resource Helpline at 866-313-2520 from Monday to Saturday, where they will be connected with appropriate resources or emergency shelter assistance as needed.
Respite Locations
In addition to overnight centers, Detroit offers recreation centers as respite locations during regular hours. Notable centers include the Adams Butzel Complex and the Community Center at AB Ford, among others.
Detroit Public Library Branches
All branches of the Detroit Public Library are also available as warming sites during their operating hours. For specific hours, visit detroitpubliclibrary.org.
Read More Here
