[Archived] City of Alexandria Opens Winter Shelters

For Immediate Release: November 17, 2021

The City of Alexandria’s overnight winter shelter services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness are open in two locations. Carpenter’s Shelter runs the winter shelters (also called hypothermia shelters) to provide guests with a warm, clean and safe environment away from the elements and cold temperatures at night. 

During November, and between April 1 and April 15, shelter operating status depends on the weather. Shelters are open nightly from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., between December 1 and March 31, regardless of weather conditions. The winter shelter located at 2355-C Mill Road provides services to single adults, and Carpenter’s Shelter, located at 930 N. Henry St., provides services to families only. 

For both locations, staff and guests will have their temperature taken, will be asked standard COVID-19 symptom questions, and will be required to wear face masks, maintain 6 feet of distance and use hand sanitizer for the duration of their stay. Guests will be encouraged to wash their hands with soap and water when entering the facility and staff will sanitize all high-touch areas throughout the shelter often. 

Winter shelter staff provide transportation to and from the shelters at the following locations and times: 

• City Hall (301 King St.), 6:20 p.m. 

• Braddock Road Metro Station (Kiss & Ride), 6:30 p.m.

• Christ House (131 S. West St.), 6:40 p.m.

In the mornings, guests at the Mill Road shelter will be transported to David’s Place, the Carpenter’s Shelter day program.

Residents interested in supporting their neighbors experiencing homelessness are invited to join The Partnership to Prevent and End Homelessness (PPEH). The PPEH strives to ensure the planning, coordination and implementation of an effective and efficient continuum of care to prevent and end homelessness in Alexandria.

Alexandrians are also encouraged to check on neighbors, via telephone or video chat, who may be at risk of hypothermia and to keep pets indoors as much as possible. Visit the City’s website for more information on how to stay safe during the winter season and for other weather-related closures and information.

Visit alexandriava.gov/49636 to learn more about shelters and operating status, and services for those who are homeless at or email ppeh@alexandriava.gov.

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Editorial Communications Manager, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.