The District is committed to protecting residents experiencing homelessness from hypothermia and other extreme weather injuries. Outreach is conducted throughout the year by teams from DHS and the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), and the District is one of only three jurisdictions in the country with a right-to-shelter mandate. 

The District significantly enhances outreach personnel and shelter capacity during the hypothermia season (November - March) and remains committed to ensuring access to shelter during extreme weather.

Map of Hypothermia Shelter Sites

During a Cold Emergency Alert, the District will continue operations by the annual Winter Plan but take additional steps, including the activation of Overnight Warming Sites.

Overnight Warming Sites are designated public buildings, including but not limited to public libraries, recreation centers, and senior wellness centers, serving as a temporary respite from the cold.

For more information on hypothermia and overnight warming sites, visit https://dhs.dc.gov/extremeweather