The city of Fort Wayne announces plans for winter shelters and warming centers

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) – The city of Fort Wayne has announced its plans to provide emergency shelters and warming centers as part of its 2024 winter emergency program.

The relief plan will come into effect on Sunday, December 1, just like a A blast of cold air will move into 21Counter this weekend. It will remain in effect through March 31, a spokesperson for the city’s community development department said.

• Help for families:
  • Families can find a Winter Contingency Emergency Shelter (WCES) at the Just Neighbors Family Shelter, which is designed to provide temporary housing and support during the winter months.
  • Call WCES staff at 260-452-5106 or Just Neighbors at 260-458-9772 for more information.
• Help for single women:
  • Single, unaccompanied women are asked to call the St. Joseph Missions Women’s Shelter at 260-426-7358 for assistance finding shelter.
    • Once the shelter is full, women are instructed to report to The Rescue Mission or the WCES.
  • Help for private individuals:
    • The Rescue Mission provides emergency bed nights to both men and women in need of shelter.
    • Persons must be at least 18 years old to receive an emergency bed.
    • Anyone wishing to use an emergency bed at The Rescue Mission must be sober when they arrive and must not have any active arrest warrants.
      • Those who do not qualify for services there are encouraged to call (260) 426-7357 ext. 156 between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to inquire about their status and explore other short-term options.

The following agencies are also open as warming centers at the following times:

• The rescue mission, 404 E Washington Blvd.:
  • Daycare: open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (open regardless of temperature).
  • Overnight care: available for adults.
    • Community meals:
      • Breakfast: 7 am
      • Lunch: 12 noon
      • Dinner: 5:00 PM
• The Salvation Army warming station, 2901 N. Clinton St.
  • Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Transportation: On Citilink Bus Route #8
• At the AsMuch Ministry Warming Center, 930 Broadway Street
  • Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 am – 11:00 am
• Allen County Public Library – Main Branch Warming Center, Library Square 900
  • Opening hours:
    • Monday – Thursday: 9am – 9pm
    • Friday – Saturday: 9am – 6pm
    • Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00
• Project.ME Heating Center, 2305 Broadway
  • Opening hours:
    • Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    • Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 2pm
    • Transportation: On Citilink Bus Route #1
    • Remark: For adults only due to the nature of the services provided.
• Citilink buses as mobile warming centers
  • Opening hours:
    • Monday to Friday: 5:40 AM – 8:15 PM
    • Saturday: 7:30 AM – 5:15 PM

You can find more information about the winter emergency plan here.

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