The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County (SAWC) provides emergency shelter for the homeless during the Winter months.

There are daytime and overnight warming centers that have been placed around Washtenaw County. There is no pre-registration needed for the daytime warming centers.

The daytime warming centers are located in two areas. First, the Ypsilanti Freighthouse which is open to the public Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m until March 31, 2022. The second one is located at First Baptist Church on Washington Street in Ypsilanti, and it is available until the end of February. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the space is limited at the overnight center, so those that need shelter must call Housing Access of Washtenaw County, (HAWC) and get a referral to the Robert J. Delonis Center in Ann Arbor. The shelter will be provided everyday after 8:30 p.m and is open until March 31, 2022. 

The Delonis Center also provides an option to every individual that needs assistance transportation to the warming center after 5 p.m. each day, including weekends.

People are provided with a safe place to sleep each night, and can access a variety of services including meals, medical care, and case management. There will also be assistance finding permanent housing.

Additionally, there are Weather Havens for extreme weather emergencies during the day at the Ann Arbor District Library and Ypsilanti District Library during their regular business hours.

The Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development said that they have “enhanced health and safety practices” and may open additional locations to “ensure adequate social distancing for guests.”

For additional information, call the Delonis Center at 734-662-2829 or visit washtenaw.org.

Share