Austin Shelters Provide Relief for 423 Amid Cold, Rainy Weather

423 people took cover in Austin's cold weather shelters Thursday night as the temperatures dropped, which was one of the biggest crowds in recent months. "That's a big number," said Greg McCormack, who is in charge of programs for Austin's Homeless Strategy Office. "We had more than 500 people last year during the arctic blast, but last night's turnout was big."

Changes to policies meant to improve communication and activation processes have led to more people using shelters. This winter, the city started telling people earlier about open shelters. This way, the coldest people could get ready and get to safety.

Friday night, shelters are still open, and people can sign up at One Texas Center (505 Barton Springs Road) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. People who have registered are taken to city leisure centers to stay the night. Key bus routes, such as lines 1, 7, and 801, take people to the registration spot. People who can't pay can get rides for free.

"We'll keep an eye on the weather and open shelters as needed," McCormack said, encouraging people who need them to do so. People in the area can call the cold-weather number at 512-972-5055 for advice and help.

The city's proactive method shows that it wants to protect Austin's most vulnerable people when bad weather hits.

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