Press release from Western Carolina Rescue Ministries:
Western Carolina Rescue Ministries (WCRM) announces modifications to its involvement with Code Purple.
Created nearly 12 years ago, Code Purple occurs when the weather forecast dips below freezing (32 degrees). The concept was created to give homeless individuals a safe, warm space to spend the night during life-threatening, frigid temperatures. In the past, WCRM has housed up to nearly 200 people in one night through Code Purple.
However, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Code Purple will be operating differently to help reduce the risk of infecting clients presently sheltered at WCRM. Currently, only clients who have tested negative for COVID-19 are allowed to stay in the overnight shelters, and non-client entry to the building has been reduced to staff and limited volunteers.
Beginning TODAY, as temperatures are set to drop below freezing at night, the Code Purple Emergency Shelter will take place at the First Congregational Church (20 Oak Street, Asheville, NC). Code Purple shelter will be provided on a first-come-first-serve basis, with capacity for 50 individuals.
To protect all individuals involved, masks will be mandatory, CDC COVID-19 guidelines will be followed, and temperature checks will be required for entry. Intake for individuals in need will be between 4PM and 7PM at the rear entry of the building.
In an effort to love and care for all individuals in need, WCRM is proud to partner with First Congregational Church to implement this project at the highest level of caution; following COVID-19 guidelines to assure the highest level of safety possible for all involved.
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