Detroit Provides Essential Services Amid Cold Weather Challenges
As Detroit faces severe cold weather, the city is taking proactive steps to ensure its residents remain safe and warm. With temperatures dropping, the City of Detroit has announced the activation of overnight warming centers, offering immediate refuge for those in need.
Overnight Respite Locations
Beginning Sunday, January 19th at 2 p.m., two designated overnight respite locations will open their doors, remaining operational through Wednesday, January 22nd at 2 p.m. These centers, Detroit Rescue Missions Ministries at 13130 Woodward Avenue and Pope Francis Center at 2915 W. Hancock, are accessible around the clock without the need for referrals. Residents seeking warmth can also contact the Cold Weather Line via the Detroit Housing Resource HelpLine at 866-313-2520.
Daytime Relief Options
In addition to overnight locations, Detroit residents can find warmth at various city recreation centers and public library branches during their regular hours. However, it’s important to note that these facilities will be closed on Monday, January 20th, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. For more details on recreation center hours, please visit detroitmi.gov/recreation, and for library hours, refer to detroitpubliclibrary.org.
Shelter Access and Resources
The City of Detroit, in collaboration with local partners, maintains over 1,400 shelter and warming center beds. Access to these facilities is managed through a coordinated entry process. Individuals and families seeking shelter can reach out to the City of Detroit’s Housing Services Helpline at 866-313-2520 from Tuesday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Veterans can call during the same days from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For in-person assessments, residents may visit Cass Community Social Services located at 11850 Woodrow Wilson Street, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or NOAH at Central, 23 E. Adams on the second floor, Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Additional information is available on camdetroit.org.
Helpline Assistance
The Detroit Housing Resource Helpline offers a range of services to those at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. Open Tuesday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, the helpline assists with housing applications, financial aid for moving, employment support, and more. Residents can reach the helpline at 866-313-2520.
Respite Centers and Library Locations
While Detroit’s recreation centers and library branches serve as daytime respite locations, they are not available for overnight stays. The recreation centers, such as the Adams Butzel Complex and the Northwest Activities Center, have specific operating hours, and all will be closed for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. For library branch hours, visit detroitpubliclibrary.org.
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