Albany Shelter Offers Warmth, Food, and Super Bowl Party During Freeze

Emergency shelter prepares for increased need as temperatures drop this weekend.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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An emergency shelter in Albany, New York is preparing to accommodate more people as temperatures drop this weekend. The Capital City Rescue Mission has been at full capacity this winter, with between 275 and 300 people staying overnight. The shelter is open 24/7 and is hosting a Super Bowl watch party this Sunday with free food for the community.

Why it matters

As temperatures plummet in the Capital Region, emergency shelters play a vital role in providing warmth, food, and a safe place for those in need. The increased demand for shelter services highlights the ongoing challenge of homelessness in the area and the importance of community support during extreme weather conditions.

The details

The Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany has been operating at capacity this winter, with officials reporting between 275 and 300 people staying overnight. Executive Director Pastor Perry Jones said the demand for services is higher than last winter, and the shelter is accommodating everyone, even if it means putting people on chairs or mats on the floor. The shelter is open 24/7 and is hosting a Super Bowl watch party this Sunday with free food for the community.

  • This weekend, temperatures in the Capital Region are expected to drop significantly.

The players

Capital City Rescue Mission

An emergency shelter located in Albany, New York that provides services to those in need, including housing, food, and community events.

Pastor Perry Jones

The executive director of the Capital City Rescue Mission, who has reported an increased demand for shelter services this winter.

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What they’re saying

“We are at capacity plus. But we don't ask anybody to leave — even if we have to put you on a chair. It's better than being outside, or even on a mat on the floor. We just have to do it, because this is a tough time.”

— Pastor Perry Jones, Executive Director, Capital City Rescue Mission (wnyt.com)

What’s next

The Capital City Rescue Mission will continue to provide shelter, food, and community support to those in need throughout the winter season.

The takeaway

As extreme weather conditions impact the Capital Region, the role of emergency shelters like the Capital City Rescue Mission becomes increasingly vital in providing a warm, safe, and welcoming environment for those experiencing homelessness or in need of assistance.