AUSTIN, Texas - The City of Austin’s Homeless Strategy Office and Trinity Center are partnering to extend the Trinity Center’s hours so people experiencing homelessness can find reprieve during the hottest parts of the day. Located at 304 E. 7th Street within St. David’s Church, the cooling center operates Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., until September 30, 2024. Extended hours may be available during periods of Excessive Heat Warnings. 

“The Trinity Center has a strong track record of providing vital services to individuals experiencing homelessness,” said David Gray, City of Austin Homeless Strategy Officer. “This collaboration is a vital step in ensuring the well-being and safety of our most vulnerable residents, especially during the extreme heat of the summer months.” 

"Trinity Center has been serving our downtown neighbors who are unhoused for 25 years—we are grateful and proud of our collaboration with the City of Austin to intentionally love and care for members of this community. Whether the air-conditioned space, a shower, fresh clothing, cooling items, a meal, or other essential services, we are happy to welcome and serve all who would seek relief from this scorching Texas heat," said Trinity Center Executive Director Christian Rodriguez. 

The pilot project, which softly launched July 1, will provide clients with access to a range of services that includes being inside with air conditioning, computer access, mail services, shower facilities, access to water and snacks, and clothing and hygiene supplies. The cost of the three-month pilot project will total $73,800.  

 
Trinity Center grew from the concern of parishioners of St. David’s Episcopal Church for people experiencing homelessness, their downtown “neighbors,” who were living in shelters or on the streets near the church. Trinity Center was founded by volunteers and is based on a model of action through volunteerism. Since its inception in 1999 Trinity Center has evolved from a Sunday-only ministry in borrowed space to a separately-incorporated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that offers a variety of programs and services for the homeless population throughout the week. For more information please visit the Trinity Center website.

To learn more about homelessness in Austin, please visit www.austintexas.gov/homelessness

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