Winter warming center to be located in Fargo Cass Public Health building

FARGO (KFGO/KVRR) — Fargo is taking a proactive approach to prevent cold weather related injuries or deaths this winter.

The Winter Warming Initiative was started in 2023 as a temporary plan to help the homeless during the winter months since most local shelters are at or over capacity.

Last year, they helped nearly 700 people with temporary shelter at the Downtown Engagement Center. They have already helped 62 this year.

There are some changes to this year’s plan.

The winter warming center will be in the Fargo Cass Public Health building at 1240 25th Street S.

Mayor Tim Mahoney clarified that the winter warming center does not include beds or cots, but has airport-style chairs for people to sit and warm up.

During the meeting, commissioners also voted 3-2 against Commissioner Michelle Turnberg’s motion to end the needle exchange program.

She argued that it was enabling addicts at the expense of taxpayers.

Commissioners John Strand and Denise Kolpack and Mayor Mahoney voted against the motion. Commissioner Dave Piepkorn supported Turnberg’s motion.