Record Number of Individuals Safely Transported Out of the Cold into Shelter
ALBUQUERQUE – During the coldest time of the year, a record number of people experiencing homelessness were connected to shelter and resources through Albuquerque Community Safety’s (ACS) overnight transport service. In January, the service transported 1,205 individuals to shelter when they needed it most. It’s an 88% increase from December and underscores the vital service overnight transport is providing as dangerously cold temperatures persist.
The ACS Emergency Overnight Shelter Transportation Service helped over 2,341 individuals get refuge in November, December, and January.
“Getting people indoors and warm can make all the difference in a person’s safety, and it’s also an opportunity to connect them to services that may help them regain stability,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “In the past, there was no system in place to help people late at night, but now, we have a place for them to go with the Gateway and a way to get them there with ACS.”
The service operates daily from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. through April 1, 2025. Anyone in need of shelter can call the ACS hotline at 505-418-6178 for transportation to the nearest available shelter.
“This month, our overnight team has successfully assisted more individuals than ever, emphasizing how critical this service is during these cold nights,” said Walter Adams, ACS Deputy Director of Field Operations. “As cold temperatures persist, our transportation service continues to be essential and we’re committed to ensuring that no one faces the cold alone.”
To complement the overnight transportation, ACS continues its proactive daytime outreach efforts, connecting individuals with resources and shelter before nightfall.
ACS is partnering with local shelters to ensure that individuals who are transported receive the comprehensive care they need. As cold temperatures remain a threat, ACS stands ready to assist anyone seeking safety and warmth.
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ACS is the City of Albuquerque’s third branch of public safety. Responders take calls for service involving behavioral health, substance use, and other non-criminal and non-medical issues. Request an ACS Responder by calling 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergencies.
Through April 1, ACS is offering its Emergency Overnight Shelter Transportation service from 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. If you are or know a member of the unhoused community that requires shelter from the cold, please contact ACS at 505-418-6178 to arrange transportation to a safe, warm location.