WILMINGTON LOCATIONS ACTIVATE CODE PURPLE FOR TONIGHT

NEW CASTLE (Feb. 5, 2014) - In the wake of icy conditions and with temperature forecast to drop into the 20s tonight, Friendship House and the Salvation Army have activated Code Purple in Wilmington to help people who are homeless find a warm shelter. People with emergency housing needs are encouraged to call 2-1-1 to be directed to the most appropriate shelter or service.

WILMINGTON

Friendship House has enacted Code Purple for today, Feb. 5. Volunteers provide soup and sandwiches. Friendship House provides hot beverages, paper and cleaning products. The shelter will open from 2:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of Saints Andrew and Matthew, 720 N. Orange St. For more information about Code Purple nights, call Bill Perkins at (302) 559-5716.

Salvation Army has activated Code Purple for today, Feb. 5. After 8:30 p.m., those at the sanctuary will go to the Salvation Army shelter, 400 N. Orange St. Men will be provided a cot set-up in the gymnasium and women will be provided accommodation in the women's shelter. An evening snack and continental breakfast will be served before visitors leave the facility at 6 a.m.

CENTRALIZED INTAKE: HOMELESS PREVENTION RESPONSE SYSTEM

Centralized Intake is a statewide program that provides an efficient and effective process for assessing individuals and families who are experiencing a housing crisis, identifying the most appropriate housing intervention needed to end their episode of homelessness, and referring them to crisis services and/or shelter to meet their immediate needs.

Anyone experiencing a housing crisis is urged to call 2-1-1. The operator will ask a few questions to determine if the person or family would benefit from prevention services in the community or if they need to be assessed by a housing specialist.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.