UPDATE 12/19: SHELTER HAS BEEN CLOSED BECAUSE OF IMPROVING WEATHER CONDITIONS.
San Rafael, CA – In response to the National Weather Service’s prediction of several days of sub-freezing temperatures, Marin County is activating its Severe Weather Emergency Shelter (SWES) for people experiencing homelessness.
For the second time this month, Marin Health and Human Services (HHS) is opening an overnight shelter at the Marin Health and Wellness Campus (3240 Kerner Blvd, San Rafael). Any individual experiencing homelessness can seek temporary overnight relief at the heated San Rafael location from 5 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 13 through Monday, December 19. Individuals are encouraged to sign-in by 8 p.m. each evening. HHS is not accepting community volunteers or donations for the emergency shelter.
Severe Weather Emergency Shelters are activated when forecast temperatures drop below an average nighttime low of 38 degrees for a minimum of three consecutive days.
Emergency Officials encourage everyone to protect the “4 Ps” from cold:
- People: Wear layers, limit time outdoors, and check heaters in advance. Give special attention to elderly and young children, who can lose body heat more quickly than others.
- Plants: cover or bring-in sensitive plants indoors
- Pets: bring pets indoors at night and provide them with plenty of warmth
- Pipes: wrap/cover exposed outdoor pipes to prevent freezing
In addition, check that your emergency kit is up to date. Winter storms can cause unexpected power outages. Having flashlights, spare batteries and extra blankets nearby can go a long way during a winter power outage.
For more information on future activations and preparing for severe weather visit Marin HHS Emergency Information or call (415) 473-6100. For more information on shelters in Marin visit Housing First Marin.