Southwest Florida Prepares for Cold Snap; Shelters and Warming Stations Open

Southwest Florida officials are preparing for a rapid drop in temperatures, with forecasts showing a 40–50 degree decrease in less than 48 hours. A freeze is expected across northern Florida, while patchy frost may extend into Southwest Florida on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Lee County

Salvation Army Shelter: Single beds available on a first-come, first-served basis at 2400 Edison Avenue, Fort Myers, from Dec. 30 through the morning of Jan. 1. Intake is from 2–4 p.m. on Dec. 30. Info: 239-789-1169.
HOT Teams: On Dec. 30, Housing, Outreach, and Treatment teams will distribute cold-weather supplies like jackets, socks, blankets, and hand warmers.
Warming Buses: On Dec. 31, LeeTran will operate buses at Rosa Parks Transfer Station, Lehigh Acres Park & Ride, and Cape Coral Transfer Station.
Warming Stations: United Way Resiliency Hubs across Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, Cape Coral, and Alva will operate, with mobile warming stations at Lions Park, Rosa Parks Transfer Station, Edison Mall Transfer Station, and South Fort Myers Transfer Station.
Resources: Use the Reach app for updates or call 239-533-7996 for coordinated entry services.

Collier County

St. Matthew’s House Shelters: Emergency shelters open from Dec. 30–Jan. 2 at:
- Campbell Lodge, 2001 Airport Road South, Naples, FL 34112
- Immokalee Friendship Lodge, 602 W Main Street, Immokalee, FL 34142
Services include beds, blankets, pillows, snacks, and coffee. Donations of blankets, coats, gloves, and socks are requested. Guests must take a breathalyzer test.

Charlotte County

Charlotte CARE Center: Provides cold refuge sheltering at 1476 Kenesaw Street, Port Charlotte. Guests must pre-register at 941-627-4313 and arrive by 8 p.m.

Hendry County

Clewiston Police Department Lobby: Open 24/7 as a warming station, offering a heated, safe space during extreme cold.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local government updates, social media, or the Lee County newsletter to access timely information about shelters and warming locations.

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