St. Louis Expands Emergency Shelter Beds and Activates Snow Plan
The City of St. Louis has expanded its emergency shelter and warming center operations to meet the growing demand caused by freezing temperatures and snow. Starting November 28, 2025, the city increased the total number of emergency shelter beds from 150 to 215, with surge capacity for up to 265 individuals. This expansion ensures that everyone seeking shelter during this cold spell has a safe and warm place to stay.
Emergency Shelter Beds Expanded to Meet Demand
As temperatures drop below freezing, St. Louis has acted quickly to provide more emergency shelter beds. By December 2, the total number of beds will rise to 215, with the ability to surge to 265 if needed. This is in addition to the 400 year-round shelter beds already available in the city.
On November 30, the city announced an increase in emergency shelter beds to 285, with surge capacity reaching 345. This proactive approach has ensured that all individuals seeking shelter have been accommodated, even during peak demand.
24-Hour Shelter Operations and Warming Centers
To support residents during this cold weather emergency, shelter operations have transitioned to 24-hour availability from November 28 through December 2. Daytime warming centers are also open during this period, providing a safe space for individuals to escape the cold.
Walk-Up Shelter Locations (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.):
- North City Zone: Peter & Paul Jugan Shelter (3225 N. Florissant Ave.)
- Central City Zone: Biddle Housing Opportunities Center (1212 N. 13th St.)
- South City Zone: Peter & Paul Sidney Shelter (112 Sidney St.)
After 9 p.m., individuals seeking shelter must contact the United Way 211 Helpline by dialing 211. Additional shelters are available by appointment, and transportation will be provided if a walk-up shelter reaches capacity.
Transportation Rally Points (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.):
- North City Zone: Urban League Women’s Business Center (4401 Natural Bridge Ave.) and Wellston Loop Community Development Corporation (1522 Hodiamont Ave.)
- Central City Zone: Centenary United Methodist Church (1610 Olive St., Pine Street entrance)
- South City Zone: Carondelet Park Tennis and Pickleball Courts (Loughborough Ave. and Grand Dr.)
Snow Plan and Street Operations
With snow expected to accumulate, St. Louis has activated its snow plan. The Street Department began pre-treating roads on Friday morning and will start plowing as snow accumulates, likely in the early hours of Saturday. Streets will be prioritized based on the Winter Weather Preparedness Plan:
- Normal Snowfall (under 1 inch per hour): Crews will clear arterial and secondary routes in continuous loops.
- Severe Snowfall (over 1 inch per hour): Arterial routes will be prioritized until conditions improve.
If significant ice develops, additional vehicles and staff from other departments will be deployed to break up the ice. The National Weather Service predicts snowfall at a rate of under 1 inch per hour, but the city is prepared to adjust operations if conditions worsen.
How to Stay Updated
St. Louis and its partners are closely monitoring weather conditions and shelter usage. Updates on emergency shelter availability, warming centers, and snow removal efforts will be provided as needed. For more information, residents can contact the United Way 211 Helpline or visit The Narrative Matters for related updates on community resources.
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