Denver announced Friday it will extend activation of its severe weather shelter system — and add more space for those seeking warmth — into the weekend as a blast of cold grips the city with temperatures forecast to fall to near zero at night.
The city’s Department of Housing Stability activated its cold weather shelter plan on Jan. 15 and says it will remain operational “until conditions improve.”
That likely won’t be until Monday, when temperatures are expected to climb into the 40s. In the meantime, the calls for bone-chilling cold, with a high on Friday of 15 degrees and 21 degrees Saturday. Sunday’s high is expected to come in at 24 degrees.
Periods of snow are expected through late Saturday though not much accumulation is anticipated.
In addition to its regular shelter facilities, Denver is providing additional space at 4849 Bannock St, along with The Aspen shelter at 4040 Quebec St. All shelter sites are pet-friendly and provide food, showers and blankets.
The city will provide transportation daily from downtown shelters to cold weather shelters and security will be present at each site.
Denver’s “front door” shelters can be . Those shelters are:
• For individual men – Denver Rescue Mission Lawrence Street Community Center, 2222 Lawrence St.
• For individual women – Samaritan House, 2301 Lawrence St.
• For youths/young adults ages 12-24 – Urban Peak, 1630 S. Acoma St.
• For families – Inn at the Highland, 2601 Zuni St.
If motel voucher capacity is reached, a dedicated family congregate shelter will be opened as backup when needed. Those needing additional support or who have questions about the system can call the Connection Center at 303-295-3366.
Around-the-clock shelter is being provided at 2601 W. Seventh Ave., 375 S. Zuni St., and 4411 Peoria St.
Denver is not the only metro-area city providing support to those in need. Some suburban communities activated emergency cold weather shelter programs on Thursday, including Westminster and Commerce City.
Denver officials say cold weather exposure poses serious danger to individuals who reside outside. Residents who see someone in need should call 311 or direct them to the nearest shelter.
