Dear Community Partner,
We are writing to alert you of the continuous Enhanced Code Blue situation and the vital resources available regarding outreach support and warming spaces.
During a DHS Enhanced Code Blue, unsheltered individuals face serious and potentially life-threatening risks due to extreme cold.
We ask for your ongoing assistance with sharing the following guidance as the situation continues:
1. Enhanced Code Blue & Outreach Support:
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People can call 311 for information on shelter, warming spaces, and assistance.
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Calls to 311 related to Enhanced Code Blue are routed to 911 so first responders can reach people quickly.
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Outreach teams are intensifying efforts citywide to connect people to shelter and lifesaving support. Teams will conduct wellness checks and attempt to engage vulnerable individuals every two hours until conditions improve.
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All DHS facilities, shelters, Safe Havens, stabilization beds, and drop-in centers, have an open-door policy. Please seek help in any of these locations.
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Intake procedures are relaxed, and outreach teams can directly place people into Safe Havens and stabilization beds.
2. Warming Spaces: The City has opened warming spaces and buses in all five boroughs to provide safe, heated indoor spaces. They will remain open throughout the period of cold weather. A regularly updated list of warming spaces locations and hours can be found HERE.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions or reach out directly to 311 should you encounter any New Yorkers in need of shelter during this cold weather.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness. Your work is vital during extreme weather events and helps save lives.
Sincerely,
