New warming house opens for homeless population in Fargo

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — For people experiencing homelessness, the brutal winters in Fargo can be deadly. Now the city has a new warming center to stay warm.

It is located at 1230 25th Street South, in the space formerly occupied by the Fargo Police Department and on the far west side of the main Fargo Cass Public Health building, and opens tonight.

The center is set up “airport style” meaning there are chairs but no beds.

There will be a television and areas where people can store their belongings or sit down to eat a meal.

Space will be limited and is considered a last resort for people who have little to no other options.

Fargo Cass Public Health Director Jenn Faul said, “It will be airport-style warming with the chairs. They can watch TV. There will be food that will be one meal here, probably in the morning or at some point. They’ll have a meal that will be here as well.”

Chandler Esslinger, Fargo Cass Public Health Community Liason, said, “We’re able to carry over many of the practices just in a space that’s a little bit more conducive to the environment we want to create. It has some amenities that are helpful in serving our guests. And just, again, giving that Engagement Center a little bit of a break.”

The warming center will be staffed seven days a week, overnight, from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.