Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Twitter
Kirk Preston Watson - Mayor of Austin, Texas | Twitter
The City of Austin, in collaboration with the Austin Area Urban League (AAUL), is implementing changes to its Cold Weather Shelter operations for the upcoming winter season. These adjustments are designed to improve accessibility and support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness during extreme cold weather.
David Gray, Homeless Strategy Officer, stated, "This year’s enhancements to our cold weather shelter operations reflect our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community from life-threatening weather conditions." He emphasized that these improvements will provide "safe, warm, and dignified accommodations" during harsh winter months.
One significant change is the simplification of activation thresholds for shelters. The new criteria will open shelters when forecasted overnight temperatures at Camp Mabry are expected to reach 35 degrees or below. This replaces the previous multi-tiered system that required specific conditions such as rain or wind chill.
Additionally, the city will now activate Cold Weather Shelters up to one day in advance. This decision allows more time for stakeholders and service providers to inform the community about available resources. Once a decision is made to open shelters, it will not be canceled even if forecasts improve.
An After-Hours Embarkation Service is being introduced to accommodate those unable to arrive at One Texas Center during normal registration hours. This service provides transportation from the central embarkation point after regular hours.
Meal services at Cold Weather Shelters have also been enhanced. Hot dinners will be provided each evening along with breakfast or snacks the following morning. Efforts will be made to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions.
Families with children seeking refuge during activation periods will receive hotel vouchers ensuring access to safe accommodations. Extensions for lodging may be available based on availability.
The City of Austin encourages individuals experiencing homelessness to utilize these resources during cold weather months. Information about access and activation can be obtained by calling the Cold Weather Shelter Hotline at 512-972-5055 or visiting austintexas.gov/alerts for emergency updates in multiple languages.
For more information on homelessness in Austin, visit www.austintexas.gov/homelessness.
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