Seeking shelter from extreme cold conditions? Look no further than our Warming Centers, open to the public during designated hours. Find out when to go and what conditions to expect. Please note that some sites may close during inclement weather and holidays.
Image by Jon Tyson
The unhoused population, also known as individuals experiencing homelessness, face unique challenges and vulnerabilities, especially during the winter months. St. Louis is dedicated to making sure that the homeless community is aware of safe shelter options during extreme cold weather. If you are aware of anyone who may need a place to stay, take a look at this article for more information.
Here are some reasons why warming shelters are necessary for the unhoused community: 1. Protection from extreme cold: The winter months can bring frigid temperatures, making it dangerous and even life-threatening for individuals who are living on the streets. Exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and other health issues. Warming shelters provide a safe and warm place for the unhoused to seek refuge from the cold weather and prevent these health risks. 2. Lack of access to proper shelter: Many unhoused individuals do not have access to adequate housing options, such as shelters or permanent housing. Warming shelters offer a temporary solution for those who are unable to find a warm and safe place to stay during the winter months. 3. Limited resources: Unhoused individuals often do not have the resources to purchase warm clothing or heating devices to keep themselves warm. Warming shelters provide access to blankets, warm clothes, and other essential items that can help protect against the cold.
4. Health concerns: Many unhoused individuals have pre-existing health conditions or weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to sickness during the winter. Warming shelters not only provide a warm place to stay, but they also offer access to basic medical care and resources to help individuals stay healthy during the cold months. 5. Supportive services: Warming shelters not only provide a place to stay, but they also offer supportive services such as case management, counseling, and access to resources. These services can help individuals connect to resources and support that can help them secure permanent housing in the future. 6. Combat social isolation: The winter months can be lonely and isolating for anyone, but for unhoused individuals who may not have a support network, it can be even more difficult.
Warming shelters provide a sense of community and social support, helping individuals feel less isolated during the colder months. Overall, warming shelters are essential for the unhoused community during the winter as they provide a safe, warm, and supportive environment, protecting individuals from extreme cold and helping them access resources that can improve their overall well-being.
Get help:
For the most up-to-date warming center information, please call 211 and speak to a Call Center Specialist.
Please call ahead to verify any COVID-19 restrictions that may be in place. This list is limited due to COVID-19 closures. If you are unable to find a warming site, please call 211 (1.800.427.4626).
Warming Centers agree to open their doors for individuals to seek shelter from excessive cold conditions during the hours listed. Excessive cold indicators are: wind chill is expected to be -15 degrees or less or the stagnant air temperature is 15 degrees. Please Note: Some sites may close during inclement weather and holidays.
Follow the link below to find the closest available warming center sorted by zip code. To ensure a site is operating during the time you plan to visit, please call the site ahead of time.
If you are an agency and are willing to be listed as a warming site, e-mail cathy.vaisvil@stl.unitedway.org.
View a map of the warming sites.
Updated on 12/06/2024
If you have trouble locating a warming site, search the database and use the keywords “warming center” or call 211.
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