LAS VEGAS — As temperatures drop across the Las Vegas Valley, the city is preparing with warming shelters and other cold-weather resources.
December was off to a chilly start with lows dropping to the upper 30s in valley neighborhoods, posing a threat to those living on the streets. There is a shelter system in Clark County and Las Vegas that activates when temperatures rise and drop drastically. The city works with the organization Council for the Homeless’s Clark County Severe Weather Task Force, which collaborates to find resources and shelter.
The task force works with Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA), the National Weather Service, and the Emergency Alert System to continuously monitor weather conditions. Help Hope Home in Southern Nevada will list open warming stations for individuals and families on its website throughout the season.
In addition to warming shelters, Las Vegas Rescue Mission is asking the community for gently used blankets and coats to distribute to people living outdoors this winter. Heather Williams, Director of Development at the Las Vegas Rescue Mission, said:
“Every night, there are people who will be on the back of our property, or sometimes on the front, that will be coming to our gate looking for items to keep them warm while they’re displaced,” she added. “If we have them available, then we’re able to hand out blankets, and if we have coats in their size, we can hand those out too.”
Residents seeking emergency resources or shelter information can dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Nevada or visit Nevada211.org.
