December 2022 Inclement Weather

Austin Street’s existing shelter at 2929 Hickory Street became vacant after the move to our new home at 1717 Jeffries Street in June. Negotiations quickly began with the City of Dallas for its use as an emergency inclement weather shelter to be used only when the City of Dallas activates its inclement weather policy (when overnight temperatures dip below 32 degrees, or 36 degrees with precipitation). On December 14th, the Dallas City Council appointed Austin Street Center as the inclement weather shelter coordinator for Dallas.

From December 22-27, the Austin Street team conducted intake at the Inclement Weather Shelter, and OurCalling’s team was contracted by Austin Street to run the day-to-day operations of the temporary shelter. Austin Street staff also coordinated a county-wide transportation network which operated daily from 4-10pm, shuttling people to Austin Street. Individuals in need were also able to dial 3-1-1 to schedule a pickup.

Our team sheltered 510 individuals, who would otherwise have been left to fend for themselves on the street in the frigid, life-threatening cold. Across our campus, we served nearly 900 individuals, providing each with 24-hour respite from the inclement weather, nutritious meals, showers and access to health care and other services.