BKC is currently seeking donations to support Salem County’s Code Blue Coalition.
A Code Blue alert is declared whenever temperatures drop below the freezing point and weather conditions pose a danger to the homeless population. The Code Blue Alert allows authorities such as police, fire and rescue workers to take homeless people to local shelters or other agencies, known as Warming Centers. These shelters make additional beds and space available until conditions improve and the alert is called off. New Jersey has a network of agencies throughout most counties. These agencies provide shelter, food, and clothing assistance for people whenever a Code Blue Alert has been issued. Each county/municipality has a different protocol about weather and temperature guidelines for a Code Blue Alert. Not all counties participate in this alert system. A Code Blue alert for counties that do participate is typically issued once temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Essex County will only issue a Code Blue alert if the temperature drops below 15 degrees. Salem County is currently in need of the following items for homeless individuals:
- New & Gently used coats
- Gloves
- Socks
- Microwaveable breakfast & dinner items (containing no pork please)
- Non-perishable lunch items
- Pudding, Jello or Fruit cups
- Individually wrapped cookies, bars or snacks to be added to bagged lunches
- Gift cards or Monetary donations
Donations are being collected from both our Woodstown and Flemington offices. Contact us for more information.
