The D.C. region is expecting its first blast of winter weather over the weekend and into next week, and is ramping up its efforts to help the unhoused.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser kicked off what the city calls “Hypothermia Season” by asking people to take the Hypothermia Awareness Pledge .

“It’s a pledge saying that if you see someone who is outside in the cold, one of the easiest ways you can help is by calling the shelter hotline,” Bowser said.

The shelter hotline number is 202-399-7093 or you can also call 311.

Bowser said when it’s cold out, everyone can play a role.

“Our number one priority, especially as the days and nights get colder, is to get people inside,” she said.

D.C. Department of Human Resources Director Rachel Pierre said the city is ready to handle a large amount of

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