Emergency Overnight Shelter Opens Tonight in Evanston

EVANSTON, IL - The Interfaith Action of Evanston organization that serves the hungry and homeless residents of the city will open an emergency overnight homeless shelter Friday night, Dec. 9 due to the cold temperatures expected to hit the area.

Doors will open at 9 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church at 1427 Chicago Ave., according to a news release from the city. No entry will be allowed after 10 p.m., however.

Temperatures overnight in Evanston are expected to be between 20 and 22 degrees.

During the daytime, the public is allowed to stay warm at the city of Evanston community centers and Evanston Public Library locations.

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The First Congregational Church of Evanston UCC, First United Methodist Church of Evanston, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Evanston, First Congregational Church of Evanston, Unitarian Church of Evanston and the Beth Emet The Free Synagogue will also take turns on hosting the emergency overnight shelter for Interfaith Action of Evanston this winter when temperatures are extremely low.

Both the city of Evanston's Health and Human Services Department and the Cook County Department of Public Health have offered safety tips for very cold weather.

“To avoid hypothermia and frostbite, dress warmly and avoid spending prolonged periods of time outdoors,” said Dr. Terry Mason, the COO of the Cook County Department of Public Health. “Winterize homes and cars now, and drive carefully.”