Local Outreach Efforts Mobilize to Protect Miami-Dade’s Homeless Ahead of Dangerous Cold Snap
As South Florida braces for an unusually significant drop in temperatures, local homeless outreach workers, shelters, and community organizations have rallied to ensure residents without permanent housing are aware of resources and opportunities to stay safe and warm. Temperatures across Miami-Dade were forecast to plunge into the 30s and potentially break local low-temperature records, with wind chills making conditions even more perilous.
Outreach teams have taken to the streets to personally engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, offering information about shelter availability and transportation to warm locations. Volunteers from groups such as Hermanos de la Calle have actively walked downtown Miami, encouraging people to come inside before the cold intensifies.
Shelter providers and advocates, including those from Camillus House and other support organizations, are urging community members to accept help. “The doors are open … we’re here and ready to do that,” said Camillus House leadership about accommodating more people as temperatures fall.
Miami-Dade and Broward shelters are working to expand capacity by adding cots, blankets, and essential supplies to serve as many people as possible. Officials have described the situation as “all-hands-on-deck,” emphasizing the severity of the cold and the importance of bringing anyone who wants help indoors.
Outreach workers and service providers are also calling on the broader community to support these efforts by donating warm clothing or volunteering, particularly during nights when weather conditions become especially dangerous.