With high temperatures expected to reach the upper 90s in Austin this week, the City of Austin’s Homeless Strategy Office is taking steps to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness are informed about available cooling options.
The city has established Cooling Centers at various locations, including branches of the Austin Public Library and Park and Recreation’s recreation centers. These facilities provide a temporary escape from the heat during their normal operating hours. Service animals, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, are permitted in these centers.
For more information on Cooling Center locations and their hours of operation, individuals can visit austintexas.gov/alerts.
The Homeless Strategy Office has communicated directly with over 3,500 people through its text alert system. The office sent messages urging caution and providing guidance on locating a Cooling Center. Additionally, information was distributed via a listserv to multiple service providers and organizations that assist those experiencing homelessness.
Further details about homelessness in Austin can be found at www.austintexas.gov/homelessness.
