Code Purple Activated in Asheville to Provide Emergency Shelter Amid Cold Weather

Code Purple Called in Asheville and Buncombe County for Cold Weather Shelter

Asheville, December 8, 2024 — As the temperatures drop in western North Carolina, Buncombe County has stepped up to provide crucial emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness. The county has officially declared a Code Purple, a coordinated initiative designed to offer immediate relief for individuals in need during this chilly weather.

What is Code Purple?

Code Purple is an urgent response to the increasing numbers of individuals without homes, especially during the harsh winter months. This initiative aims to expand emergency shelter capacity with fewer requirements than typical programming, making it easier for those in need to find a safe space to stay warm. The process is streamlined to allow for quicker access, ensuring that no one has to face the bitter cold alone.

Where Can People Go for Shelter?

There are two main Code Purple shelter sites in the Asheville area:

• ABCCM (Single Men)
  Location: 20 20th Street
  Phone: 828-259-5333
  Intake Hours: 4–8 p.m. | Exit: 7:30 a.m.
  Transit Route: WE2 Bear Creek Rd
• ABCCM’s Transformation Village (Single Women & Women with Children)
  Location: 30 Olin Haven Way
  Phone: 828-259-5365
  Intake Hours: 4–8 p.m. | Exit: 7:30 a.m.
  Transit Route: W2

Both locations are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that those with mobility challenges can also seek shelter and warmth.

Transportation Assistance

For those needing help getting to shelter sites, there are several transportation options available:

• Free ART Bus Transit: Riders can take advantage of the free bus services, but must inform the drivers they’re heading to a Code Purple site.
• ABCCM Shuttle: This shuttle picks up from the Crisis Ministry at 24 Cumberland Ave. at 4 p.m. sharp.
• Community Support: Paramedics and Asheville Fire Department-REST, along with Mission Hospital, are on standby to assist with transportation for individuals unable to access bus services.

Families with children will be prioritized and assessed on a case-by-case basis. If traditional shelter options are full, they may even be offered hotel accommodations for additional comfort during these cold nights.

Staying Informed

As the weather continues to fluctuate, staying informed is essential. Residents are encouraged to check for weather updates at weather.gov to ensure they are prepared during this frigid season.

A Community Response

The activation of Code Purple showcases the community’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable members. As the temperatures plummet, it is imperative for community members to rally together, offering support, whether by volunteering, providing donations, or simply spreading the word about available resources.

In a time when the winter chill can feel isolating, initiatives like Code Purple remind us of the warmth of community spirit and the importance of compassion. Let’s do our part to make sure everyone has a safe place to rest during this cold weather.