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How cooling centers can help Atlanta's unhoused residents

Wednesday will likely be the city's hottest day of the week with highs near 100.

ATLANTA — As warmer weather welcomes the summer season, those experiencing homelessness in Atlanta need a way to stay safe in the heat and those looking to help the unhoused can help point them to cooling centers in metro Atlanta.

Wednesday is forecasted to be the hottest day of the week with highs near 100. Several options are being offered to help the city's vulnerable residents stay cool.

In metro Atlanta, a cooling center will be open Wednesday through Friday from noon to 7 p.m. daily at the Old MLK Natatorium at 90 Boulevard NE. Light snacks and water will be provided by the city to residents while at the center.

RELATED: Record heat possible mid-week

In Dekalb County, most libraries and recreation centers will be available as cooling centers during business hours. A room in each building will be designated as a cooling area and water fountains will be accessible. Additionally, there will be free access to pools from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on days when a heat advisory is issued. 

The DeKalb County Department of Human Services at 30 Warren St. in Atlanta will also be open to the public as a cooling center Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., during heat advisories according to a press release. 

Seniors in the area needing assistance can call the Senior Link Line at (770) 322-2950 for an assessment of need and help.  

RELATED: 'I've never seen it this busy' | AC companies struggling to keep up with rising temperatures

Vulnerable residents are also currently being housed in local hotels and motels by the DeKalb County Community Development Department. 

Anyone in DeKalb County who needs homelessness assistance or housing services can contact DeKalb County Coordinated Entry by calling (404) 687-3500.

To learn more about Dekalb County's cooling centers click here.  

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