Published on February 21, 2025
San Antonio Activates Additional Overnight Shelter to Combat Freezing Temperatures
SAN ANTONIO (February 21, 2025) — As freezing rain threatens the north side of San Antonio, the City of San Antonio is stepping up its efforts to protect residents experiencing homelessness. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts patchy freezing rain late into Friday afternoon and continuing into Saturday morning, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of unsheltered individuals.
Comprehensive Shelter Network Expands
In response to the forecast, the City’s Department of Human Services (DHS) has resumed its Street Outreach Team, providing support since Monday, February 17, to reach out to the unsheltered community. An array of overnight shelters have been dispatched across the city to offer immediate refuge:
- City of San Antonio Bode Community Center — 901 Rigsby Ave
- City of San Antonio Tobin Community Center — 1900 West Martin St
- Communities Under the Bridge (CUB) — 724 Chestnut St, 78202
- Sold Out Believers Church — 1139 Gembler, 78219 (all genders)
- Sold Out Believers Church — 1802 Guadalupe, 78207 (female only)
- Haven for Hope — 1 Haven for Hope Way, 78207
- SAMMinistries — by referral
- Corazon Ministries — 504 Ave E, 78215
Support Services Available
The Community Connections Hotline at 210-207-1799 operates around the clock, offering assistance to connect unsheltered individuals with essential resources, including transportation and cold-weather supplies. Animal Care Services ensures that pets are safely accommodated by providing kennels within shelters.
Temporary Placement Freeze
To further prioritize safety, San Antonio has suspended all encampment abatements until conditions improve. This proactive measure aims to prevent displacement of those currently without shelter and ensure their well-being during the cold weather event.
New Resilience Hub
The city has established an additional overnight resilience hub at the Northeast Senior Center, located at 4135 Thousand Oaks, 78233. This location will be open from 5 p.m. on Friday, February 21, through 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 22. The hub will provide a warm overnight stay, access to basic supplies, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, pet kennels will be available. Individuals in need of transportation can contact 3-1-1 (210-207-6000) or the Community Connections Hotline.
Safe Places to Warm Up During the Day
During the day, residents are encouraged to seek refuge in city facilities that remain open. Libraries, Senior Centers, and Community Centers are equipped to offer a warm environment during their regular hours. For guidance, residents can access a map and detailed information at SA.gov/ColdWeather.
Public Transit Accommodations
To facilitate safe travel, VIA passengers can ride fare-free to or from designated warm spots until Saturday, February 22. When using VIA bus service or VIA Link (in service zones), riders should inform the bus operator. VIAtrans passengers must notify the reservation agent during booking.
City Commands Caution for Residents
The City of San Antonio strongly advises residents to remain indoors when possible. For essential travel, exercise extreme caution, particularly on surfaces that may be icy. The 311SA mobile app and the 3-1-1 hotline (210-207-6000) provide up-to-date information. Starting on Friday evening, the 311 hotline will extend its hours until 2 a.m. before returning to standard hours (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) on Saturday.
Conclusion: A Unified Effort
These measures reflect the collaborative strategic response of the City of San Antonio and its partners. By enhancing shelter availability, providing transportation assistance, and suspending encampment abatements, the city ensures that no one is left vulnerable to the adverse effects of freezing conditions. The goal is to maintain the safety and well-being of all residents, especially those without stable housing.
For updates, support, or additional resources, visit the San Antonio homepage or contact the Community Connections Hotline. Stay safe and informed during these challenging weather conditions.
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