Asheville Implements Code Purple for Emergency Sheltering

News Summary

Asheville and Buncombe County activate Code Purple on February 27, 2025, to provide emergency shelter amid dangerously cold temperatures. Local shelters are enhancing bed availability and reducing entry barriers to ensure everyone’s safety during the cold snap. Transportation support and accessibility accommodations are also prioritized, aiming to connect individuals with long-term housing solutions and assistance in a unified community effort.

Asheville Takes Action: Code Purple Unleashed for Emergency Homeless Sheltering

Asheville and the surrounding Buncombe County community are rallying together to implement Code Purple on Thursday, February 27, 2025, due to dangerously cold temperatures in the area. This collaborative effort aims to provide emergency overflow shelter for those experiencing homelessness during this chilly period.

A Warm Welcome for All

During Code Purple, local shelters are stepping up their game by making more beds available and easing some of the usual requirements that may restrict access to shelter. This is all about making sure that everyone has a safe place to stay during the unrelenting cold snap. It’s a fantastic move to ensure that no one has to brave the bitter weather alone.

When individuals seek shelter, they can also expect to receive helpful referrals to ongoing housing options and support services. This is not just about keeping them warm for the night; it’s about trying to find them stable housing solutions for the future.

Accessibility Matters

Inclusivity is a large focus during Code Purple. Both ABCCM locations, catering to men and women, are equipped to be handicap accessible, making sure everyone in need can find refuge. Should specific accessibility needs arise, Safe Shelter is open to working through referral discussions to accommodate those requirements. Ensuring that all individuals can find shelter, regardless of their circumstances, is a priority.

Transportation Support Available

Getting to a warm bed can be a challenge for some, especially if they don’t have access to public transport. Not to worry! Community Paramedics and the Asheville Fire Department’s REST team are on hand to provide transportation to shelters for those who might find it difficult to access bus transit options.

Additionally, Mission Hospital has set up arrangements to provide taxi services for individuals being discharged to Code Purple sites. This thoughtful gesture ensures that everyone leaving the hospital can head straight to safety.

Getting to the Shelters

Those needing a ride can catch the ABCCM shuttle from Transformation Village at stop 877, located at the Asheville Outlet Mall. The service aims to make it as convenient as possible for those in need. And here’s a bonus—free ART bus transit is also available! Riders simply need to let the bus driver know they are heading to a Code Purple site.

In addition, there’s a special shuttle service at the Crisis Ministry, located at 24 Cumberland Ave, to pick up folks at 4 p.m. This is a fantastic option for those needing extra support. For those who might need a morning lift, transportation back to the Coxe Ave terminal is available during weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., making sure that everyone gets the opportunity to stay warm.

Need More Information?

If you need more details about the Code Purple facilities or general inquiries, there’s a hotline set up just for that! You can give them a call at 828-398-6011. Whether you need shelter or know someone who does, the community is here to help navigate these icy temperatures.

Asheville and Buncombe County are coming together to help their neighbors during these cold nights. Through Code Purple, a strong message is sent: No one should go without shelter, especially when the temperatures drop. Let’s stay connected, and warm, together!

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Additional Resources

• Fox Carolina: Code Purple Issued in Buncombe County
• WLOS: Free Transport and Extra Beds as Asheville Activates Code Purple
• WLOS: Code Purple Shelters Open in Asheville
• Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Homelessness

Author: HERE Asheville