Dallas Opens Temporary Inclement Weather Shelter at Fair Park on Sunday
Dallas, Texas – As the chilling temperatures threaten the safety of the homeless population in North Texas this Sunday, organizers are gearing up to launch the largest temporary inclement weather shelter in the state at Fair Park in Dallas. The shelter, set to accommodate up to 900 individuals, is a collaborative effort between nonprofits like Our Calling and the Austin Street Center, along with the city of Dallas.
Organizers Prepare for Emergency Shelter
The shelter, set in the Grand Place at Fair Park, will begin intake on Sunday afternoon to provide a safe haven for those facing the harsh weather conditions. Pastor Wayne Walker, CEO of Our Calling, shared, “We prepare for this all year long, working with different agencies so we can deploy at a moment’s notice.”
A Glimpse Inside the Shelter
The temporary shelter offers rows of cots, bins stocked with snacks, coats, and blankets, aiming to provide not just warmth but comfort to those seeking refuge. Paul, a man with 20 years of experience living on the streets, expressed the severity of the cold weather, stating, “Too cold for me… very too cold.”
Call for Community Support
As temperatures plummet and the shelter opens its doors, Pastor Walker emphasizes the importance of community support and urges individuals to seek shelter. He emphasized, “We really need people to come inside. It’ll take two or three days for people to finally decide I am going to come and I need a safe place to be.”
Support and Services Offered
Beyond providing temporary shelter, the facility will also offer essential services like physical and mental health support to aid individuals in transitioning off the streets permanently. The city of Dallas has organized a press conference before the shelter opens, with key officials and organization leaders present to address the public.
The community is encouraged to contribute to the cause by donating financially or materially through Our Calling’s website and to report sightings of the homeless population using their app for prompt assistance from street outreach teams. Let’s come together to support our neighbors in need during these challenging times.