Farwell Recreation Center on Detroit’s east side is opening its doors to protect residents from freezing temperatures. Beginning on December 5, at 5 p.m., the center joined Joseph Walker Williams Recreation Center in providing round-the-clock shelter for anyone seeking relief from the cold. This initiative is part of Detroit’s broader winter housing and shelter plan. Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo activated these emergency measures to ensure the city’s most vulnerable populations have access to lifesaving resources.
The City of Detroit has put a comprehensive system in place to address housing insecurity and the dangers posed by cold weather. Since early November, warming centers have been providing emergency shelter beds, hot meals, showers, and other services. These facilities are operated in partnership with organizations like Cass Community Social Services and Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries. These partnerships provide critical support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
The warming centers serve specific populations to meet various needs. Cass Community Social Services focuses on families and women. Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries operates facilities for families, women, and single men. Together with the city, these organizations manage over 1,200 shelter beds. By January 2025, that number will grow to 1,400, expanding the city’s capacity to help residents in need.
Access to these shelters is coordinated through Detroit’s Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM). CAM ensures that residents can easily access the services they need without unnecessary obstacles. Residents seeking shelter can call the Housing Services Helpline at 866-313-2520, which operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. – noon. For veterans, the helpline provides specialized services during the hours of 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. In-person support is also available at locations such as Cass Community Social Services and NOAH at Central, where residents can receive intake assessments and referrals.
For those facing broader housing emergencies, the Detroit Housing Services office offers a range of resources. The DHS helpline connects residents to housing assistance programs that go beyond immediate shelter needs. Since its creation, DHS has placed over 3,200 residents in permanent housing and provided temporary stabilization for nearly 800 households. These services include financial support for moving costs, help securing employment, and assistance addressing property conditions like lack of heat.
The city is also using recreation centers and libraries to provide safe, heated spaces. Recreation centers, including the Adams Butzel Complex, Heilmann Recreation Center, and Kemeny Recreation Center, operate during regular hours as respite locations. Detroit Public Library branches also offer warm environments during their standard hours of operation. These spaces are spread throughout the city to ensure accessibility for all residents.
City of Detroit Recreation Centers
Adams Butzel Complex, 10500 Lyndon
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.– 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Butzel Family Center, 7737 Kercheval Avenue
Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Closed Saturday
Clemente Recreation Center, 2631 Bagley
Monday-Friday from 1– 9 p.m., Closed Saturday
Community Center at AB Ford, 100 Lenox
Monday – Friday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Crowell Recreation Center, 16630 Lahser
Monday-Friday from 1– 9 p.m., Closed Saturday
Farwell Recreation Center, 2711 E. Outer Drive
Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Closed Saturday
Heilmann Recreation Center, 19601 Crusade
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.– 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Lasky Recreation Center, 13200 Fenelon
Monday-Friday from 1– 9 p.m., Closed Saturday
Northwest Activities Center, 18100 Meyers
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Patton Recreation Center, 2301 Woodmere
Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Detroit’s winter plan addresses not just immediate shelter needs but also the systemic challenges that lead to housing insecurity. The city is prioritizing proactive solutions to prevent homelessness and support residents in achieving long-term stability. By connecting residents to housing resources, employment opportunities, and emergency financial aid, the city aims to reduce the number of families and individuals facing housing crises.
The coordinated efforts between city officials, community organizations, and service providers reflect a shared commitment to protecting Detroit residents. The addition of 100 shelter beds this season demonstrates the city’s urgency in preparing for winter’s harsh conditions. Warming centers, recreation centers, and libraries are working together to provide a layered safety net for the community.
The call to action is clear. Residents are encouraged to share this information widely to ensure those in need know where to turn for help. For those at risk of losing housing, the Detroit Housing Resource Helpline offers support that goes beyond shelter placement. This comprehensive approach shows that Detroit is not just reacting to winter’s challenges but is prepared to address them with care and precision.
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