James B. Quattrone Sheriff at Chautauqua County | Official website
James B. Quattrone Sheriff at Chautauqua County | Official website
As winter approaches, Chautauqua County is preparing to assist individuals needing warm shelter during the cold months. With temperatures expected to fall, Code Blue shelters will be activated to support those facing homelessness.
A new Overnight Code Blue Warming Center will open at 917 Washington Street in Jamestown. Operated by Recovery Options Made Easy, it will be available on qualifying nights from November 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025.
Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. expressed gratitude for the initiative: “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 business hours, emergency shelter arrangements can be made at the Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services offices located at 15 W. Lucas Avenue in Dunkirk or 110 E. Fourth Street in Jamestown.
For after-hours assistance, including weekends and holidays, individuals can go directly to the Overnight Code Blue Warming Center without needing a referral. Families seeking help should contact the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office or their nearest police department.
Carmelo Hernandez, Director of Chautauqua County's Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services stated: "Chautauqua County is committed to ensuring that our most vulnerable residents have access to safe and warm shelter during the winter months... We encourage everyone who requires shelter to reach out and take advantage of this vital service."
Several local agencies are involved in providing Code Blue placements across Chautauqua County:
- Brooks Memorial Hospital
- UPMC Chautauqua
- Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene
- Chautauqua Opportunities Mobile Crisis Team
- UCAN Mission
- Mental Health Association
Additional warming centers may operate during Code Blue warnings; individuals are advised to contact these centers directly for specific hours.
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