As temperatures begin to rise following Houston’s Arctic blast, the city announced Thursday that eight warming centers will close at noon, while two will remain open overnight to support those still in need.
As individuals leave the centers, they will receive support bags containing Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), socks, and information on social services. To assist with transportation needs, METRO is providing vouchers onsite, while zTrip is offering rides to help individuals return to their homes, shelters, or other destinations within Houston.
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Beginning at 10 a.m. today, METRO began transporting individuals staying at the Fonde and Metropolitan warming centers to The Beacon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the unhoused community.
Since opening at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19, the city’s warming centers have served as a critical refuge, offering water, snacks, meals, and shelter from the freezing weather. Over the past several nights, the centers provided support to an estimated 1,300 people each evening as temperatures dipped into the teens and low 20s.
“I want to thank the Office of Emergency Management, the Mayor’s Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security, the Houston Health Department, Houston Parks and Recreation Department, and all other staff and partners who worked to operate the warming centers. We came together as a city to assist our most vulnerable citizens. Houston showed how well we plan and execute in response to a major weather event,” said Mayor John Whitmire.
Brian Mason, director of the Office of Emergency Management, said the city will officially end its Arctic blast activation on Thursday.
“Everyone poured their heart, talent, and expertise into preparing the city over the last week. We have a great team, and this experience will help us better prepare for the next emergency,” Mason said.
