Medford, OR – The City of Medford, in collaboration with ACCESS, has activated a severe weather shelter in response to a cold weather forecast. The shelter, located at 332 W. 6th Street, will open at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and remain operational until 8:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. It will provide critical services, including food, bedding, and dry storage, for individuals seeking refuge from the cold.
Medford City Manager Rob Field issued a severe weather event declaration on Tuesday, prompting the opening of the shelter. The facility is considered “low barrier,” meaning no religious affiliation or drug testing is required for entry. This approach ensures that people experiencing homelessness can access shelter without facing additional obstacles.
ACCESS, a local nonprofit organization, will operate the shelter, coordinating volunteers to work overnight shifts. The shelter is part of the city’s response plan, which activates when temperatures are forecasted to drop below 25°F or when the temperature is 32°F with other hazardous weather conditions, such as wind or rain. Volunteers will assist with tasks such as serving meals, distributing donated clothing, and connecting individuals with other services.
Matt Rogers, Program Manager for ACCESS’s severe weather shelter, emphasized that volunteers are critical to the shelter’s success, particularly given the short notice involved in activating such shelters. “Volunteers are always our biggest need,” Rogers said. “With these severe weather declarations, there’s not much lead time, so we rely on community members to help us make this happen.”
In addition to volunteers, Rogers encouraged donations of items frequently requested by shelter guests. “Socks, gloves, hand warmers, and warm blankets are some of the most needed items,” he said. Even when the shelter is not in operation, ACCESS staff distribute these items to people in need.
To support the response to severe weather, the city announced that it would temporarily postpone enforcement of its prohibited camping ordinance, allowing individuals with tents pitched unlawfully to remain in place until the severe weather event declaration is lifted. This measure aims to provide additional flexibility and protect vulnerable individuals during extreme cold conditions.
Community members who wish to receive updates about the shelter’s status can sign up for text alerts by texting MED4SHELTERS to 888777. Those interested in volunteering or donating are encouraged to contact ACCESS directly for more information on how they can assist.
This initiative reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting its most vulnerable residents during periods of extreme weather, ensuring that no one has to face life-threatening conditions on the streets.