January 21, 2025

Cold Night Shelters Opening in Pinellas County

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News Summary

As temperatures drop below 40 degrees, Pinellas County opens cold night shelters to provide warmth and safety for vulnerable residents. Free bus rides to shelters will be offered, with several locations available in St. Petersburg. The Homeless Leadership Alliance highlights the urgent need for shelter as the number of unhoused individuals rises. Community efforts include additional beds and significant funding to address homelessness. This initiative aims to ensure that no one faces the bitter cold alone during this challenging weather.

Cold Night Shelters Ready to Welcome Pinellas County Residents as Chill Sets In

As temperatures are forecasted to plunge below 40 degrees, the Homeless Leadership Alliance is taking action in Pinellas County by opening cold night shelters for those in need this Monday and Tuesday night. It’s a crucial step as the National Weather Service warns that the “feels like” temperature could slip significantly, putting vulnerable individuals at risk.

Free Rides to Safety

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority is lending a helping hand by offering free bus rides to the shelters. Starting at 5 p.m. each night, folks can hop on board and make their way to a safe, warm spot for the evening. After all, during these chilly nights, everyone deserves a cozy place to rest their head!

Where to Find Warmth

In St. Petersburg, several shelters will open their doors from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. These include:

WestCare Turning Point, located at 1801 5th Ave. N.
Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 100 Mirror Lake Dr.
Salvation Army, located at 1400 4th Street South.

These shelters not only provide a warm space but may also serve meals, helping those who need it most during the cold snap.

Growing Concerns Amid New Legislation

With new legislation that took effect on October 1, making it illegal to sleep in public places, there is growing concern that more individuals may be seeking shelter during these cold spells. The landscape of homelessness in the region is shifting, prompting a better response from local organizations.

Rising Numbers and A Call for Action

Recent data shows a concerning trend: the 2024 Pinellas County Point in Time Count Report reveals that there are currently 721 unhoused individuals in the region, marking a substantial 12% increase since 2023. A staggering total of 2,110 people experienced homelessness in a single night back in January 2023.

Furthermore, an eye-opening statistic indicates that more than 3,500 local children experienced homelessness during a mere five-month period from August 2023 to January 2024, highlighting an urgent need for action.

Efforts to Expand Shelter Capacity

In light of these challenges, shelters across Pinellas County are ramping up their capacities, with some locations planning to add an extra 10 to 25 beds. The Homeless Leadership Alliance is putting renewed emphasis on the need for supportive housing and rapid rehousing programs to tackle the growing challenge of homelessness.

Funding and Community Commitment

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the county has secured $6.1 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to bolster community services and programs aimed at tackling homelessness. This funding represents a critical lifeline as local organizations convene regularly to prepare for future needs stemming from both legislation and socioeconomic challenges.

As the cold weather sets in, it’s heartening to see the community rally together to ensure that no one has to face the bitter chill alone. With shelters opening their doors and transportation being provided, Pinellas County is stepping up to keep its residents warm and supported during these chilly nights.