Pinellas County Opens Cold Night Shelters Amid Freezing Temps

Free transit rides offered to transport homeless to shelters in Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As temperatures in Pinellas County are expected to drop below 40 degrees, the Homeless Leadership Alliance has announced the opening of cold night shelters in Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, and St. Petersburg. The shelters will be open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, providing a warm, safe place to sleep as well as hot meals at some locations. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will also offer free rides to and from the shelters during those hours to help transport individuals in need.

Why it matters

With freezing temperatures forecasted, the opening of these cold night shelters is a critical resource for the homeless population in Pinellas County, providing refuge from the harsh winter conditions. The collaboration between the Homeless Leadership Alliance and PSTA ensures accessibility and reduces barriers for those seeking shelter.

The details

The cold night shelters will be located at various sites across Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, and St. Petersburg, including St. Timothy Luthern Church, First United Methodist Church, and Boys & Girls Club of Pinellas Park. The shelters will accept adult men and women, and some locations will also allow leashed or contained pets. Families with children are encouraged to call 2-1-1 for assistance in securing placement in family shelters. The Homeless Leadership Alliance is actively seeking volunteers to support the operation of these shelters.

  • The shelters will be open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026 and Sunday, February 1, 2026.
  • The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will provide free rides to and from the shelters from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. on those same dates.

The players

Homeless Leadership Alliance

A local organization that announced the opening of the cold night shelters and is seeking volunteers to support their operation.

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA)

The local transit agency that will provide free rides to and from the cold night shelters during the specified hours.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This coordinated effort by local organizations and transit providers demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting the homeless population and ensuring their safety and well-being during extreme winter weather conditions.