Alexandria’s Winter Shelters are Now Open

A DCHS CONNECT NEWS HIGHLIGHT 

November 30, 2021--The City of Alexandria’s overnight winter shelter services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness are now available in two locations. The location at 2355-A Mill Rd serves single adults while the shelter at 930 North Henry St. serves families only.

The shelters’ operating statuses will be dependent on the conditions of the weather during November, and between April 1 and April 15. Both locations will be open regardless of weather conditions between December 1 and March 31.

Both shelters provide a warm, clean and safe environment for the guests and are open nightly from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Upon arrival, guests will have their temperature taken, will be asked standard COVID-19 symptoms questions, and will be required to wear face masks, maintain six feet of distance and use hand sanitizer for the duration of their stay. Guests will be encouraged to wash their hands with soap and water when entering the facility and staff will sanitize all high-touch areas throughout the shelter often.

Winter shelter staff provide transportation to and from the shelters at the following locations and times:

●       City Hall (301 King St.), 6:20 p.m.

●       Braddock Road Metro Station (Kiss & Ride), 6:30 p.m.

●       Christ House (131 S. West St.), 6:40 p.m.

In the mornings, guests at the Mill Road shelter will be transported to David’s Place, the Carpenter’s Shelter day program.

Carpenter’s Shelter operates the winter shelters (also known as hypothermia shelters) to provide individuals and families experiencing homelessness with a warm, clean and safe environment away from the elements and cold temperatures at night.

Residents interested in supporting their neighbors experiencing homelessness are invited to join The Partnership to Prevent and End Homelessness (PPEH). The PPEH strives to ensure the planning, coordination and implementation of an effective and efficient continuum of care to prevent and end homelessness in Alexandria. For more information, email ppeh@alexandriava.gov.

Alexandrians are also encouraged to check on neighbors, via telephone or video chat, who may be at risk of hypothermia and to keep pets indoors as much as possible.

Visit alexandriava.gov/49636 to learn more about winter shelters and their operating status as well as other resources and services for those experiencing homelessness.