Washington, DC—January 3, 2018—Central Union Mission makes room for more than 20 extra men to help the city during DC’s hypothermia emergencies. “People need to know that it’s dangerous—even deadly—to be outside in these temperatures,” commented David Treadwell, Central Union Mission executive director. “The substance abuse or mental illness that put people on the street in the first place will also prevent them from seeking help. They might resist our concern, but regardless of their attitude, their rags and cardboard boxes are no match for this kind of cold.”

The increase in the number of homeless people this year puts a larger burden on shelters like Central Union Mission and the city’s rescue transport. If you see a homeless person outside today, call DC’s Hypothermia Hotline: 1-800-535-7252. State the location and describe the clothing of that person, and the city’s hypothermia van will transport him or her to a warm shelter or a hospital, if necessary.

Since the District is required to provide shelter for anyone that needs it during weather that has below freezing wind chills between November 1 and March 31, the cold temperatures and weekend blizzard prediction have put our preparations in high gear. Central Union Mission’s usual capacity is 170, but we have mattresses for 20 more men during weather emergencies. Along with a safe sleeping space, our guests are provided nutritious meals, hot showers and warm clothing. Central Union Mission’s services are funded by private donors who care about the homeless in Washington, DC.

Central Union Mission is a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit with its homeless shelter located at 65 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20001. In addition to its emergency shelter program, the Mission operates rehabilitative and job training programs for men, a clothing and furniture distribution center, a retreat and recreation center with a camp for underprivileged children and a ministry to families and senior citizens. www.missiondc.org