Asheville Implements Code Purple for Homeless Shelter

News Summary

As temperatures drop in Asheville, the city launches Code Purple, a program to provide emergency overflow shelters for the homeless amidst harsh winter conditions. Coordinated by the Asheville Homeless Coalition, participating shelters significantly ease entry requirements and expand capacity. Transport assistance is available, ensuring accessibility for those in need. With the initiative expected to run through January 5, the Asheville community demonstrates solidarity in ensuring safety for all residents, proving that compassion prevails in challenging times.

Asheville Takes Action: Code Purple Shelters Open for the Cold

As the temperatures drop dramatically in Asheville, the city has rolled out Code Purple, an initiative launched by the Asheville Homeless Coalition effective Sunday, December 1. This special program aims to provide emergency overflow shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness during these bone-chilling conditions.

What is Code Purple?

Code Purple isn’t just a fancy name; it’s a lifeline for those who might otherwise be battling the cold on the streets. This initiative coordinates efforts among various shelters across Asheville and Buncombe County. Participating facilities are stepping up their game by offering more beds and easing the usual entry requirements. The goal? To ensure that no one has to face the freezing temperatures alone.

Where Can People Find Shelter?

Several shelters will be welcoming guests under the Code Purple banner. For men, the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM) has moved its operation to a new site at 20 20th Street. Meanwhile, women and families can find refuge at ABCCM’s Transformation Village, located at 30 Olin Haven Way. Both locations are prepared to provide a warm and safe haven for those in need.

Transportation Support

One of the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness is access to transportation. To make things easier, Community Paramedics and the Asheville Fire Department’s REST team will be on hand to provide a helping hand. They will assist with transportation for those who can’t access public transit. Moreover, Mission Hospital is stepping up as well, offering taxi services to Code Purple sites specifically for patients discharged from their care.

Additionally, ABCCM will provide a shuttle service to and from Transformation Village, with pick-up and drop-off at stop 877, Asheville Outlet Mall. For those relying on public transportation, free bus transit will be available at night through Asheville Redefines Transit (ART). Individuals simply need to identify themselves as needing free transit to access this essential service.

Daily Transportation Schedule

To make life a bit easier, the shelters will provide morning transportation back to the Coxe Avenue terminal. This service runs from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on weekdays and from 8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. This thoughtful scheduling ensures that guests can have a smooth start to their day, no matter when they need to head back.

Lights and Communication

If you’re wandering through Asheville and see purple lights illuminating certain buildings, that’s your signal that Code Purple has been activated. This visual cue serves to raise awareness about the availability of emergency shelter services. For further information, a dedicated Code Purple hotline can be reached at 828-398-6011.

Looking Ahead

Code Purple is set to potentially continue its operations through January 5, driven by the ongoing chill that grips the Asheville area. For those worried about shelter during this cold snap, the community is rallying together to ensure that everyone has a safe, warm place to stay. With every effort mobilized to protect the vulnerable, Asheville is showing that it truly cares for its residents, ensuring that no one has to brave the cold alone.

So, if you or someone you know is in need, don’t hesitate to reach out. This winter, the community is standing together, proving that compassion can shine bright, even in the coldest months.

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HERE Resources

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Asheville’s Affordable Housing Initiatives Expand
Buncombe County Approves New Affordable Housing Development in Asheville
Asheville’s Concert Series Moves to Pack Square Park
Asheville’s Code Purple Initiative Aims to Protect the Homeless
Asheville Honors Local Heroes in ‘Appalachian Phoenix’ Performance
Asheville Educators Advocate for No-Cuts Budget
Asheville Hosts Benefit Concert for Hurricane Helene Relief
Asheville Activates Code Purple for Emergency Shelters
Affordable Housing Development Launches in Asheville

Additional Resources

• WLOS: Free Transport & Extra Beds for Asheville’s Code Purple
• WLOS: Code Purple Shelters Open to Protect the Homeless
• Spectrum Local News: Code Purple Preparation
• Fox Carolina: Code Purple Issued for Buncombe Co. Due to Cold Weather
• Google Search: Asheville Homeless Winter 2024