'Probably wouldn't have survived': Man thanks Tacoma shelter for help in the winter months He says he probably would not have survived otherwise. TACOMA - The city of Tacoma will open a temporary warming shelter in the northeast neighborhood by the end of the month, a topic that has caused controversy in the community. Three out of four community centers in Tacoma are providing services to folks who are experiencing homelessness. The only one currently not providing any services is the Center at Norpoint. Officials say by the end of the month, that center will open its doors to 25 people experiencing homelessness, specifically women or couples.