Shelters Offer Warmth and Safety as Cold Weather Sets In

Homelessness remains a persistent challenge in our county and across the nation, and as colder weather approaches the need for safe shelter and support becomes even more urgent. 

The National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger designates the week prior to Thanksgiving as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

Understanding Homelessness in Fairfax County

There were 1,322 people experiencing homelessness in Fairfax County on the night of the 2025 Point in Time Count. The county’s services for those experiencing homelessness include:

• Six shelters for adults and families. Call Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880 (TTY 711) to request a bed or outreach if you are unsheltered. Or, go directly to the nearest shelter.
• A 24-hour hotline for victims of domestic and sexual violence: 703-360-7273, TTY 711.

Hypothermia Prevention Program During Winter Months

Fairfax County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program runs from Dec. 1 to March 31 and ensures no one experiencing homelessness sleeps outside during the winter. The program provides warm shelter, food, clothing, connections to supportive services and more for unhoused individuals. Overflow shelter capacity is available if unseasonably cold weather occurs.

Ending homelessness is a team effort. The Hypothermia Prevention Program is operated in partnership with nonprofits, faith organizations and community groups.

Unhoused adults in need of immediate shelter are welcome at any of the adult shelters or one of the regional Hypothermia Prevention Program locations. Adults with children should contact Coordinated Services Planning; county staff will connect the family with appropriate shelter and resources.

How You Can Help

Residents can support these efforts by donating essentials like clothing, furniture, school supplies or funds to participating nonprofits. Volunteering at shelters or contributing to prevention programs can also make a tangible difference in helping those who are experiencing homelessness.

• Our network of nonprofit partners seeks donations of clothing, furniture, school supplies and more. 
• Job training, shelter support, fundraising and other assistance is needed across the county. Volunteer opportunities can be found on the Volunteer Fairfax website.
• If you see someone who is unsheltered and you think is at risk for hypothermia, call 703-691-2131 TTY 711. This is the non-emergency police number. A police officer will respond and conduct a wellness check.