January 2026 Winter Emergency Response

January reminded us just how quickly winter weather can turn dangerous—especially for our unhoused neighbors. During the January 2026 winter emergency response, the Windsor Park Care Team was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with partners across Austin to meet urgent needs with compassion, coordination, and care.

Thanks to everyone who stepped up during this week’s winter activation, together we supported more than 1,500 people across our community. The scale of what was accomplished in such a short window speaks volumes about what’s possible when neighbors and organizations work together.

Here’s what that collective effort delivered during the activation:

• 5,000 hot meals shared with people facing the cold
• Over 500 coats to provide critical protection from the elements
• More than 600 blankets for warmth and rest
• 1,000+ beanies and hats
• 250+ hygiene kits offering dignity and care
• Tons of warming supplies distributed where they were needed most
• Time-sensitive information to help people stay safe and informed
• Over 100 rides to shelter, connecting people to warmth and safety when it mattered most

None of this happens without deep collaboration. We want to extend special thanks to the organizations that made this response possible: Community Resilience Trust, Austin Mutual Aid, My Sister’s Keeper ATX, The Healing Project, Conjunto Contigo Catering, Memorial United Methodist Church, DAWA, We Can, Carol’s Kindness Food Pantry, Walking By Faith Ministries, Sow Family Foundation, and the volunteers from the Windsor Park Care Team.

Each meal served, coat handed out, and ride to shelter represented more than a number—it was a moment of human connection and a reminder that our community shows up when it counts. Volunteers gave their time, donors shared their resources, and partner organizations brought expertise and infrastructure that allowed this response to move quickly and effectively.

As we move through the rest of the winter—and throughout the year—let’s continue to keep our unhoused neighbors in mind. Cold snaps may come and go, but the need for compassion, advocacy, and sustained support remains constant. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply checking in on someone you see regularly, every action helps build a safer, more caring community.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this winter response possible, and to all who continue to show up for our neighbors when they need it most.

To stay involved in Windsor Park and be a part of the caring community that we have built:

If you live in Windsor Park also become remember to become a member of the Windsor Park Neighborhood Association.