Temperatures in Orleans Parish are expected to drop to at or near freezing on Thursday night, prompting the City of New Orleans to put its freeze plan for the homeless into effect.
The freeze plan is enacted whenever the temperature or the wind chill factor is expected to fall to 35 degrees or lower. Temperatures near freezing, combined with the strong winds affecting the region, can cause serious medical problems to people exposed to them for extended periods of time.
The city is encouraging people to take precautions to protect themselves from the weather, and is providing temporary shelter options for homeless citizens.
People requiring shelter during the inclement weather period can take refuge at the following locations, free of charge:
- The Salvation Army, 4530 South Claiborne Avenue — will accept males and females beginning at 4:00 p.m.
- Ozanam Inn, 843 Camp Street — will accept males only beginning at 4:00 p.m.
- Covenant House, 611 North Rampart Street — will accept males and females between the ages 16-21, their dependent children, and any female with dependent minor children. Mothers with small children may come anytime.
- New Orleans Mission, 1130 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. — will only accept male or female adults beginning at 4:00 p.m.