Detroit Residents Find Warmth Amidst Frigid Temperatures
As Detroit faces a cold snap, city officials are urging residents to take advantage of available warming centers and shelters. In response to the freezing conditions, Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo has declared a cold weather health emergency to ensure public safety.
Warm Shelter Options Available
In collaboration with the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, an overnight shelter has been established to accommodate those in need from December 11 at 3:00 p.m. to December 13 at 3:00 p.m. The shelter is located at 13130 Woodward Avenue and is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to provide refuge during harsh weather conditions.
Warming Centers in Detroit
Open since early November, Detroit’s warming centers have added 100 emergency shelter beds to support the homeless during the winter season. These centers offer overnight shelter, meals, showers, and housing assistance services. The centers cater to different groups: Cass Community Social Services and Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries serve families and women, while another branch of Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries assists single males.
Expanding Shelter Capacity
The city currently operates over 1,200 shelter and warming center beds, with plans to increase this to more than 1,400 by January 1, 2025. Residents can access these facilities through the city’s coordinated entry process by contacting the Housing Services Helpline at 866-313-2520 during specific hours. In-person assessments are also available at designated sites.
Accessing Housing Resources
The Detroit Housing Services office and Resource Helpline provide vital resources to support those facing housing crises. Since its inception, the DHS has assisted over 3,000 residents in securing permanent housing and stabilized more than 700 households with temporary accommodations. The Helpline offers assistance with housing applications, financial support for moving costs, and employment resources to ensure residents remain housed. Individuals facing immediate housing challenges can reach out at the same helpline number.
Additional Respite Locations
For those seeking daytime relief, the City of Detroit has designated several recreation centers and Detroit Public Library branches as respite locations. These facilities are open during normal operating hours, providing a warm environment for residents.
Detroit Recreation Centers
Among the recreation centers available are Adams Butzel Complex, Butzel Family Center, and Clemente Recreation Center, each offering specific operating hours throughout the week. Additional centers include the Community Center at AB Ford, Crowell Recreation Center, and others.
Detroit Public Library Branches
All Detroit Public Library branches welcome residents during their regular hours. The Main Library operates Monday, Thursday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours on Tuesday and Wednesday. For detailed branch hours, visit detroitpubliclibrary.org.
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