I'm the luckiest guy in the world

[woodsprite]

27. Don't know if this is nationwide or not -- Code Purple sanctuaries

We have a network of them here in New Castle Co. (Newark and Wilmington have them), DE and it looks like they may have something similar in Asheville, NC. Here's the blurb from their website:

"The Friendship House and the faith communities of the Newark Homeless Coalition operate an overnight sanctuary when there is forecasted life-threatening weather conditions. Typically, a Code Purple night will be called when the forecasted wind chill factor falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

This is not a shelter. There are no beds, showers, or lockers. It is simply a warm, safe room in the facility of one of our congregations. It is open from 6:00pm to 6:00am. The host congregation will provide a light supper in the evening, hot beverages throughout the night, and personal attention to each client's needs before morning departure, including transportation vouchers for those who need them."

Seven of the 8 local facilities are within walking distance from where I work. I believe they rotate responsibilities so not all are open each evening there is a code purple. Many of the people we talk to throughout town can't believe that we have as many homeless in the area as we do, or that we would need someplace like this in town. The church I belong to also has a discretionary fund and medical benevolence fund. They are for anybody who needs help -- whether they're a member or a stranger -- help is there for rent, shelter, heat, special food, clothes/coats, medicines, etc.