In addition to the year-round sheltering of an average of 260 guests per night, TRM provides various cold-weather shelter options for unsheltered neighbors according to our long-standing Cold Weather Exceptions. A detailed description of these exceptions can be found below.  Factors that influence how decisions are made include the space we have available, the safety of all those we serve, and consideration of confidential information on a case-by-case basis.  Due to the factors mentioned above, there may be a rare situation where someone is unable to stay at TRM either due to their decision or ours.  During those times TRM will continue to conduct or arrange for welfare checks and will also provide the person with cold weather supplies.

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Warming centers will be activated at the discretion of the TRM Executive Director, in collaboration with TRM leadership, partner agencies, local officials, etc. Factors that determine these decisions require a combination of the following: extreme cold temperatures, windchill, precipitation prior to or following extreme cold (type, amount, when it comes in, and duration), a State of Emergency Declaration, the ability of outreach teams to access neighbors. The type of precipitation is a key factor because the health-related dangers increase exponentially when our neighbors get wet and are then affected by the temperature drop and windchills.

   

We are deeply grateful to churches, organizations, and businesses that open additional warming centers and offer support. By working together as a community, we can better meet the needs of those most at risk during extreme weather. 

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Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do you determine if Warming Centers should be activated? 

 At TRM, the decision to activate a warming center is guided by a combination of critical factors aimed at protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. This decision-making process goes beyond temperature alone, as multiple weather-related conditions can create life-threatening situations for those experiencing homelessness. Key considerations include: 

• Windchills: Low windchill temperatures significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. 

• Precipitation: The timing, type (e.g., rain, sleet, snow), and intensity of precipitation can create hazardous conditions, particularly when combined with freezing temperatures. 

• Impact on Outreach: Severe weather can limit the ability of outreach teams to connect with individuals, requiring proactive measures to ensure safety. 

These factors, assessed together, inform us when it is necessary to act ahead of worsening conditions to ensure the safety of those in need. 

 

Who staffs the warming centers? 

Warming centers are staffed by a combination of organizations’ staff and community volunteers.  When multiple sites are activated, United Way of Kaw Valley is a key partner in helping to recruit and secure volunteers for all the sites.  The volunteer coordinator for TRM also reaches out to volunteers who assist TRM throughout the year.   

  

What does TRM do if only the temperatures are low? 
There are different levels of intervention depending on the temperatures: 

1.  When the outdoor temperature or windchill falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, people may be allowed to register to stay overnight from 11:00 pm to 6:45 am.  This pertains to people who have limited service restrictions or people who have not registered with us or if we are at full capacity for our regular bed space.  If people are actively under the influence of alcohol, confirmed by a “red” result on the breathalyzer test, will be allowed to enter the building for 10 minutes every hour until they are able to produce a “yellow” or “green” result at which time they can register for an overnight sleeping space. 

2. When outdoor temperature or windchill falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, the procedures in #1 are in place, and individuals with a current Limited Service Restriction or who is unable or do not desire to register may be allowed to enter the Main Lobby for 15 minutes every hour to warm up.  

3. When outdoor temperature or windchill falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the Cold Weather Exception may be extended for the duration of the extreme cold weather event. Individuals registered under this exception may remain in the building in designated areas until the temperature and windchill are in excess of 20 degrees Fahrenheit at which time they will be reverted back to the regular Cold Weather Exception.  

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Can people with service restrictions access any shelter options during cold weather? 

Special exceptions to restrictions may be provided in the presence of severe weather conditions at the discretion of the on-call Shelter Director, giving access to sheltering as described above.  Misconduct leading to safety concerns while receiving these special provisions will result in loss of eligibility for these exceptions.