New Jersey cities issue ‘Code Blue’ alerts as temperatures drop below freezing
Cities are providing shelter for homeless residents as temperatures drop.
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As cold weather hits New Jersey, many people are seeking a warm place to stay. Counties across the state have issued “Code Blue” alerts, providing shelter to those in need.
“I got my own blanket just in case, you know? But they should have some food and water to keep us warm tonight,” said Rakeem Simmons, who was waiting to enter a shelter in Paterson. “Very important because I just need somewhere to put my head tonight.”
A “Code Blue” requires all counties to have a plan in place to shelter all homeless individuals when the temperature drops below freezing or for some type of severe weather.
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“We can anticipate [as many as] 70 people coming into our warming centers,” says Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh. “We do our best to accommodate them.”
As temperatures drop into the 20s and 30s across the state, many cities are prepared to shelter homeless residents.
Those seeking refuge from the cold can walk into a shelter or find one by calling 211.
“You know, just a little cold. I’m looking to get into a shelter tonight,” Simmons says.
Minors will be accommodated at a hotel with their parents.
