Since the National Weather Service is calling for temperatures to drop under 40 degrees this weekend, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties are partnering with local organizations to provide shelter for people most vulnerable to the drastic weather change, especially children, the elderly and pets. Hillsborough County alongside The Portico and Amazing Love Ministries will provide two shelter locations: one located at 1001 N Florida Ave. and the other at 3304 E Columbus Dr., both opening at 6 p.m.
Additionally, Metropolitan Ministries and Tampa Crossroads are giving out limited single-night motel vouchers until 5 p.m. today on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pre-registration is required by calling the following numbers:
Individuals and families can call 813-209-1176. Individuals and couples without children can call 813-702-0850.
These shelters will follow COVID-19-related safety guidelines by requiring and giving out face coverings, serving meals in single-serve containers and practicing social distancing.
Pinellas County’s Cold Night Shelters will be open between 6 p.m.-6 a.m. at its different locations:
St. Petersburg
Northwest Presbyterian Church: 6330 54th Ave. N. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Salvation Army: 1400 4th St. S. from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.
The Turning Point: 1810 5th Ave. N. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Pinellas Park
Boys and Girls Club: 7790 61st St. N from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Clearwater
First United Methodist Church: 411 Turner St. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
The Refuge Outreach Church: 606 Alden Ave. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Tarpon Springs
Boys and Girls Club: 111 W Lime St. from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Families can call 2-1-1, Tampa Bay Cares, for information on family shelters.
Pasco County, in collaboration with Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County, will be providing shelter on both sides of the county. To make sheltering arrangements for either night, call the Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County at 727-842-8605, extension 6, as follows on Friday until 4 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m.-4 p.m.
This article appears in Jan 27 – Feb 2, 2022.