Twenty-two people were displaced from the ACTS shelter in eastern Prince William County on Monday night because of a sprinkler system malfunction.
The Dumfries shelter sustained severe water damage and needed to be closed immediately. It will remain closed until repairs are completed, ACTS spokeswoman Robin McGee said.
"Staff pulled together throughout the night to find alternative temporary housing arrangements for the 22 residents," McGee said the statement. "They did a great job ensuring that the families were re-housed and important items relocated to safe dry places."
Officials with the town of Dumfries were also very helpful, she said.
The malfuncting system is on an upper floor of the building, McGee said.
"At this time, we are not able to totally assess the damage or our long-term needs for donations," she said.
ACTS will provide updates on the damage and repairs, and ACTS leaders anticipate the shelter will be running again soon.
