Quick Take:
With a cold front set to hit Santa Cruz county, two overnight emergency shelters will open to protect the unhoused from the low temperatures.
With a cold front set to hit the region this week, the county along with the cities of Santa Cruz and Watsonville are opening two overnight emergency shelters to protect unhoused residents from the frigid temperatures.
From Monday to Wednesday morning, Santa Cruz County is set to see temperatures drop down into the mid 30s late evening and early morning. The National Weather Service warned that low temperatures can pose a danger to unhoused communities and those without adequate heating.
The Santa Cruz and Watsonville veterans Halls will be operating as temporary overnight shelters for the unhoused from Tuesday night at 8 p.m. until 8 a.m. Wednesday morning. The two shelters will be operated by People First of Santa Cruz County. Officials said they would reassess to determine if the shelters need to remain open beyond Wednesday morning.
Due to limited capacity, the agencies will prioritize those with disabilities and anyone experiencing health or safety risks if they remain sleeping outdoors. Pets will be allowed if leashed and well behaved.
The shelters will begin accepting residents one hour before opening at 7 p.m. After intake and bed assignments people will be given cots, blankets, and ready-to-eat meals.
The two shelters will be located at:
Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building
846 Front St.
Santa CruzWatsonville Veterans Memorial Building
215 East Beach St.
Watsonville
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