As the winter months approach, Chautauqua County is ready to provide support for individuals in need of warm shelter during extreme cold weather. With temperatures forecasted to drop, Code Blue shelters will be activated, offering a lifeline to those facing homelessness.

This year, a new Overnight Code Blue Warming Center, operated by Recovery Options Made Easy, will open at 917 Washington Street, Jamestown, on qualifying nights starting Nov. 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025.

Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. emphasized the importance of the new initiative, stating, “I want to formally acknowledge Recovery Options Made Easy for taking on the critical responsibility of operating this shelter. As we brace for the harsh winter ahead, it is vital that we come together as a community to support those in need. This center embodies our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no individual faces the dangers of winter weather without shelter or support.”

During regular business hours, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, individuals seeking emergency shelter should visit the Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services offices at 15 W. Lucas Avenue, Dunkirk, NY, or at 110 E. Fourth Street, Jamestown, NY, where emergency shelter arrangements will be made.

For those in need of emergency shelter after hours, on weekends, or during holidays, the Overnight Code Blue Warming Center is available. No referral is necessary. Individuals who do not have minor children or those who are aware of someone experiencing homelessness should report directly to the warming center for assistance.

Families seeking shelter assistance are encouraged to contact the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office at (716) 483-7536 or reach out to the nearest police department.

“Chautauqua County is committed to ensuring that our most vulnerable residents have access to safe and warm shelter during the winter months,” said Carmelo Hernandez, Director of Chautauqua County’s Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services. “We stand at the ready, 24/7, to help those in need. We encourage everyone who requires shelter to reach out and take advantage of this vital service.”

Several local agencies are available to assist with Code Blue placements in Chautauqua County, including:

Brooks Memorial Hospital

UPMC Chautauqua

Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene

Chautauqua County DSS Child and Adult Protective Services

Chautauqua Opportunities Mobile Crisis Team

UCAN Mission

Mental Health Association

Recovery Options Made Easy (ROME)

Additional warming centers may also be open during Code Blue warnings. Individuals seeking assistance are advised to contact these sites directly to confirm their specific hours of operation.