Two shelters designed to provide refuge for people who are homeless during Long Beach’s colder months have been activated for the season.
Long Beach’s winter shelter, 702 W. Anaheim St., normally operates as the city’s emergency shelter, offering 85 beds to people in need every night. But as of Nov. 17, according to a recent news release, the facility has transitioned to winter shelter operations — offering 125 beds each night.
The winter shelter will also have 24/7 services, including thee daily meals, shower access, restrooms, an enclosed outdoor area, and accommodations for service animals and pets.
In partnership with First to Serve Outreach Ministries and the Los Angeles County Homeless Services Authority, people will also have access to case management, referrals to permanent and year-round shelters, help obtaining vital documents, and behavioral health resources at the winter shelter.
People in need of services from the winter shelter will need a referral from Long Beach’s Multi-Service Center or the Mobile Access Center.
“As temperatures drop, supporting our neighbors who are unhoused with care and urgency is a top priority,” First District Councilmember Mary Zendejas said. “This expanded shelter plan reflects our continued focus on safety, dignity and compassion, and I’m grateful to our partners and staff working around the clock to connect people with a warm place to sleep and the services that can help them move forward.”
Alongside the opening of the winter shelter, Long Beach will also bring its yearly inclement weather shelter online during certain weather conditions throughout the coming months.
The inclement shelter consists of an extra 65 beds at the Multi-Service Center, which will be set up when temperatures are expected to be 45 degrees or lower; when rain exceeding light showers is predicted; and if the National Weather Services issues a flood watch or warning, the city said.
“Living outdoors or in places not meant for human habitation during inclement weather conditions such as cold, rain or wind significantly increases the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, heart attacks from overexertion and other health complications,” the city said. “The inclement weather shelter reduces these risks by providing a warm, dry and safe space when it is needed most.”
People staying at the inclement weather shelter when activated will get a cot and blanket, a hot dinner and light breakfast, access to restroom and other hygiene supplies, and other resources.
For more information on housing and shelter resources in Long Beach, go longbeach.gov/homelessness.