With the National Weather Service forecasting overnight temperatures in the mid to low 30s in Sacramento over the next few days, the City of Sacramento is opening two respite centers so people experiencing homelessness can come inside during the worst of the cold weather.
City Hall Lobby, at 915 I St., will be open Thursday and Friday night (Dec. 9 and 10) from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.
The Hagginwood Community Center, at 3271 Marysville Blvd., will be open Friday night (Dec. 10) from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.
The two locations will provide a warm place to stay, snacks, water, and restroom facilities. Both locations have covered, protected outdoor space that can accommodate pets in kennels or crates.
The Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance is also activating its severe weather motel respite response, offering motel vouchers to people through a referral process.
“We are working with our non-profits and others to communicate with people experiencing homelessness to make sure they know that these respite centers are an option for them,” said Bridgette Dean, director of the Department of Community Response. “The City has about 1,100 beds in various settings for people experiencing homelessness, but they are currently full, and the respite centers offer an alternative to those most vulnerable during this cold weather event.”