Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - As the temperatures begin to drop, the City of Long Beach has taken action to support those experiencing homelessness during the colder winter months. The city has activated its winter shelter operations and inclement weather shelter to provide a safe and warm place for individuals in need.

Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Cold and wet weather conditions can turn dangerous quickly, particularly for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. By expanding our shelter beds, we are ensuring that people have somewhere safe to go when conditions worsen. This work can save lives and I'm grateful for the City staff and partners who show up for our community and provide them care and resources when it matters most."

The city's Emergency Shelter, located at 702 W. Anaheim St., has transitioned to winter shelter operations. This means that its nightly occupancy has been expanded from 85 to up to 125 people. The service will operate 24/7 from November 17th through March 31st, 2026 in partnership with First to Serve Outreach Ministries and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), which also funds this seasonal expansion.

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Individuals staying at the winter shelter will receive three meals per day, access to showers, restrooms, an enclosed outdoor area, and accommodations for service animals and pets. They will also be connected with vital supportive services such as housing-focused case management, referrals to permanent and year-round shelter programs, assistance obtaining identification and vital documents, as well as connections to behavioral health and social service resources.

First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas expressed her support for this initiative by saying, "As temperatures drop, supporting our neighbors who are unhoused with care and urgency is a top priority. This expanded shelter plan reflects our continued focus on safety, dignity and compassion." She also thanked the partners and staff working tirelessly to connect people with a warm place to sleep and essential services.

Access to the shelter requires a referral from the Multi-Service Center (MSC) or Mobile Access Center. In addition to the city's 400 year-round shelter beds and 40 winter shelter beds, the MSC has been activated as an emergency overnight shelter during periods of extreme weather. It can provide low-barrier shelter for up to 65 people, with separate spaces for men and women.

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Living outdoors or in unsuitable conditions during inclement weather significantly increases the risk of health complications such as hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks. The inclement weather shelter aims to reduce these risks by providing a warm, dry, and safe space when it is needed most.

The shelter may be activated when any of the following occur: forecasted temperatures of 45° F or lower, a flood watch or warning issued by the National Weather Service, or weather forecasts predicting rain that exceeds light showers. Participants will receive a cot and blanket, hot dinner and light breakfast, access to restrooms and hygiene supplies, support from City staff and security, as well as connections to services via the MSC. However, all participants will be required to vacate the facility in the morning and may return when the MSC resumes standard operations.

When activated, Homeless Services Bureau staff will conduct direct outreach to notify individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness of this opportunity. Information on how to access shelter will also be shared on the City's social media platforms.

For more information on these winter shelters and other resources for those experiencing homelessness in Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/homelessness. The City is committed to providing support and care for its community members in need during these colder months.

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