News Summary
Asheville has activated a Code Purple, aiming to provide emergency shelter for the homeless as temperatures drop dangerously low. The Asheville Homeless Coalition has collaborated with local shelters to ensure that individuals in need can find warmth and safety during the brutal cold. Community resources such as transportation services and a hotline for information are also being put in place to support vulnerable individuals during this harsh winter season.
Asheville Takes Action: Code Purple for the Homeless Amid Brutal Cold
Asheville, the picturesque mountain town known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture, is turning its focus on compassion this winter. As temperatures drop dangerously low, the Asheville Homeless Coalition has declared a Code Purple effective from Sunday, December 1. This initiative aims to provide emergency shelter for individuals facing homelessness during these frigid conditions.
What is Code Purple?
So, what exactly is Code Purple? Essentially, it’s a call to action for local shelters and organizations to band together to ensure that those without a home find refuge from the bitter cold. The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, as it opens up more beds with relaxed eligibility requirements, making it easier for people to access shelter. Participation in this program indicates a united commitment to the community’s most vulnerable members during harsh weather conditions.
Where Can People Find Warmth?
During this Code Purple alert, several participating shelters will step up to the plate. For single men, there’s the ABCCM shelter located at 20 20th Street. Women, as well as mothers with children, can find sanctuary at ABCCM’s Transformation Village. Additionally, Safe Shelter is on hand to provide housing for families.
Transportation Services: Getting to Safety
Getting to these shelters shouldn’t be a challenge. Community Paramedics along with the Asheville Fire Department’s REST team are readily available to transport individuals who may have difficulty accessing public transit. Furthermore, Mission Hospital has arranged taxi services specifically for individuals being discharged, ensuring that no one is left out in the cold after receiving care.
For those needing to go to or from Transformation Village, ABCCM offers shuttle service with convenient pickups at the Asheville Outlet Mall (stop 877). On top of that, the Asheville Redefines Transit (ART) is providing free bus rides to and from Code Purple sites during the nighttime hours, making it even easier for people to get the help they need without having to worry about fare.
Helpful Transportation Schedules
If you’re in need of morning transportation back to the Coxe Avenue terminal, you’ll want to make note of the following: weekday service runs from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. On Saturdays, it’s available from 8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., and yes, there is Sunday service too! Riders should simply inform their bus drivers that they require the free transit option to Code Purple sites.
Resources and Information
The Bigger Picture
Code Purple is set to continue through Friday, November 22, but keep an ear to the ground, as it might be extended depending on the weather. Visual reminders, like purple lights at strategic locations, will indicate where resources are available, acting as a beacon of hope during these challenging times.
Community Involvement
How You Can Help
Residents are encouraged to step up and contribute items such as sleeping bags, blankets, and winter gear to assist individuals facing homelessness this season. The community spirit of Asheville is about to shine even brighter as everyone comes together to lend a helping hand. After all, every little bit helps, and during this cold spell, there’s no better time to show love and kindness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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House Fire in Asheville Injures One Early Monday Morning
Asheville’s Housing Crisis Deepened by Hurricane Helene: A Call for Action!
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Asheville Declares Code Purple for Emergency Shelter
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Free Transport & Extra Beds as Asheville Activates Code Purple
- Fox Carolina: Code Purple Issued in Buncombe Co. Asheville Due to Cold Weather
- Spectrum News: Code Purple Preparation
- Google Search: Homeless Support Services Asheville
- Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
