FORT WORTH, Texas — Summer officially begins this week, bringing high temperatures that make spending long periods outside uncomfortable and even dangerous.
The Texas heat can be especially taxing for people without consistent access to shelter. Heat is the top cause of weather-related deaths in the US. Last year, Texas hit an all-time high for heat-related deaths.
In response to dangerous heat, the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition is partnering with city leaders and organizations to provide cooling centers and resources, according to a press release from the organization.
“The extreme Texas heat can be dangerous for people experiencing homelessness,” Lauren King, executive director of Tarrant County Homeless Coalition, said in a press release. “Our street outreach teams will also distribute water and assess for other needs as we work together to provide resources for those in need.”
Fort Worth will open up several locations for cooling centers across the city, starting June 17 through Sept. 16. The following locations will be open as cooling centers:
- True Worth Place
- Location: 1513 E Presidio St, Fort Worth
- Time: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. Dinner included
- Community Crossroads
- Location: 1516 Hemphill St, Fort Worth
- Time: 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
- First Street Mission
- Location: 801 W 1st St, Fort Worth
- Time: 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday
- When We Love
- Location: 1100 E Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth
- Time: 3 to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Friday
City of Fort Worth libraries and community centers will be open for their regular hours. The staff there have been trained by the city's HOPE fire unit, which specializes in working with the city's homeless people, on how to identify and respond to heat-related conditions, according to the release.
You can find more information about Fort Worth's cooling stations here.
In Arlington, two nonprofits will offer daytime resources during the summer:
- The Salvation Army
- Location: 712 West Abram St, Arlington
- Time: Noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. This location can accommodate 3 people, exceptions can be made for families.
- Arlington Life Shelter
- Location: 325 W. Division St, Arlington
- Time: .: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Arlington libraries will be open for normal operating hours and provide seating and water fountains, according to the release.