Photo: Fargo Cass Public Health
FARGO (KFGO) – Fargo Cass Public Health is opening its 2026-2027 Winter Warming Operation on Monday night at the new Resource and Recovery Center to protect vulnerable residents from freezing temperatures.
Located at 2001 First Ave. N., the overnight site will be open seven days a week from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The operation serves as a safety net when local homeless shelters reach full capacity, helping prevent hypothermia and cold-weather injuries during the area’s harshest months.
Officials plan to host up to 75 individuals each night. Expanded space at the new center allows the city to offer 60 sleeping mats, which will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. Once all mats are taken, chairs and other seating will be provided for additional guests.
The service is available to adults 18 and older who have no other overnight shelter options. During the intake process, workers will first try to connect individuals with open beds at area shelters before admitting them to the warming center.
Existing center staff will run the operation alongside up to four temporary workers hired for the winter season. Employees will also connect guests with community services, including housing assistance, mental health support and medical treatment.
“Opening the center’s doors to provide a warm place to stay during extreme cold is another way the new facility is meeting the needs of our community,” Mayor Josh Boschee said.
The Resource and Recovery Center opened in June, replacing the former Downtown Engagement Center. During the 2025-2026 winter season, the warming operation recorded 8,872 total visits, serving an average of 62 people per night and 639 individuals overall.
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