An emergency homeless shelter in Palm Springs will be extending operations to the end of October to provide the dispossessed with a temporary escape from the heat and cold, officials said Friday.
The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission and city are partnering to keep the doors open to the facility at 225 El Cielo Road, near Arenas Road, according to city spokeswoman Amy Blaisdell.
“We’re pleased … to continue this much-needed assistance for another month as we work on funding and longer-term solutions,” Palm Springs Councilman Geoff Kors said. “The goal is to transition these residents off the streets by connecting them with services and opportunities for housing.”
Blaisdell said the shelter is providing services to between 30 and 40 people nightly.
Along with temporary sleeping arrangements, visitors receive refreshments and are offered assistance with exploring resources available to them, officials said.
“The city is committed to providing services for all of our residents and to finding permanent solutions to end homelessness,” Councilwoman Christy Holstege said.
The emergency shelter is slated to close on Oct. 31.
The Desert Healthcare Fund is seeking donations to match a $50,000 grant for the purpose of operating shelters citywide. Only $19,000 has been raised for the match to date, Blaisdell said.
Anyone interested interested in making a contribution was asked to visit www.dhcd.org .