Asheville Launches Code Purple Initiative to Combat Winter Chill

News Summary

Asheville has initiated the Code Purple program, aimed at providing emergency overflow shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness during the winter months. Launched by the Asheville Homeless Coalition, this initiative seeks to ensure no one faces the cold alone. With increased shelter space and reduced requirements, more individuals can secure a warm place to sleep. Along with enhanced transportation options provided by local services, the program highlights the community’s commitment to helping its most vulnerable residents during cold nights in December and beyond.

Asheville Comes Together to Combat Winter’s Chill with Code Purple Initiative

As winter sets in and temperatures begin to dip, the city of Asheville is stepping up to ensure that no one has to brave the bone-chilling cold alone. The Asheville Homeless Coalition has launched a special initiative known as Code Purple, designed to provide emergency overflow shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness. Kicking off on Sunday, December 1, this initiative is all about happiness over hardship and making sure everyone has warmth during those chilly nights.

What is Code Purple?

Simply put, Code Purple is a coordinated effort among local shelters and organizations in Asheville and Buncombe County. The goal? To provide extra shelter space for those in need, especially as nighttime temperatures hover dangerously close to freezing. During this initiative, participating shelters will make things a little easier for guests by offering more beds and reducing the usual requirements for shelter programs. This means more people can find a warm place to sleep without having to jump through endless hoops.

Transportation—Getting You There Safely

Getting to shelters shouldn’t be a worry, and that’s why community paramedics and Asheville Fire Department’s REST team are on hand to offer transportation for those unable to access public transit. For those coming out of Mission Hospital, taxi service is also provided to ensure everyone can reach the Code Purple sites without a hitch. Plus, ABCCM is rolling out a shuttle service between the Transformation Village at Asheville Outlet Mall and key locations to make the journey as smooth as possible.

And for those relying on the local bus system, here’s some good news: the ART bus service is offering free transportation to Code Purple shelter sites at night. Just let the driver know you’re in need of free transit, and you’re good to go. On weekdays, morning transportation back to Coxe Ave terminal will be available, making it easier to get where you need to be regardless of the time.

Code Purple—A Growing Movement

Help Needed—Join the Cause

How to Get Involved or Seek Help

If you or someone you know needs assistance or would like to volunteer, help is just a phone call away. The Code Purple hotline is open for information at 828-398-6011. For those interested in joining the volunteer effort, Shannon Paris’s office can be reached at 828-398-6985. Every little bit helps in this combined effort to protect the vulnerable members of our community from the frigid temperatures that winter brings.

A Warm Thought

This season, let’s embrace the spirit of community by coming together to support the Code Purple initiative. A few hours of your time or a simple donation can mean everything to someone looking for warmth during this cold and blustery season. After all, we are at our best when we look out for one another—especially when the temperatures drop!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Western North Carolina Schools Adjust to Severe Winter Weather
Asheville Prepares for Shelter Demand Surge as FEMA Deadline Nears
Asheville Secures $225 Million for Hurricane Recovery
Upstate and Asheville Shelters Open to Help the Homeless in Freezing Temperatures
Asheville Implements Code Purple for Homeless Support
Asheville Faces Icy Challenges with Winter Weather
Chilly Weather Leads to Code Purple in Asheville
Cold Snap Hits Western North Carolina This New Year’s Weekend!
Asheville Braces for Heavy Rainfall Following Hurricane Helene
Asheville Activates Code Purple for Freezing Winter Temperatures

Additional Resources

• WLOS: Free transport, extra beds as Asheville activates Code Purple for homeless winter
• Spectrum Local News: Code Purple Preparation
• WLOS: Urgent need for Code Purple volunteers in Asheville due to high shelter demand
• Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Homeless