Shelters Brace for Rising Need as Code Purple Continues

The mercury is dipping, and with it, the urgency for local shelters is rising. Asheville’s havens for those experiencing homelessness are facing a fifth consecutive night of Code Purple, an activation triggered by freezing temperatures.

A Persistent Struggle Against the Cold

While Code Purples are not new to Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), the recent extension, coupled with the impacts of Hurricane Helene, has added a layer of complexity. Shelters are already stretched thin, though ABCCM Chief Administrative Officer Tim McElyea assures that they are prepared, at least for the immediate future.

Meeting Immediate Needs

“It looks like a full week,” McElyea remarked on Monday. “Code Purples every day through the weekend.” He estimates the need is similar to this past January, when 29 out of 31 days were designated Freezer Nights. The ministry, fortunate to have sufficient resources for now, anticipates a surge in demand once the last FEMA shelter closes.

“I anticipate that our numbers will go up exponentially, ” McElyea explained. “As we move further into the winter season, that need is going to be there even bigger. This is a marathon, not a sprint when you get into the winter months.”

Finding Warmth and Support

Marjorie Bortolotto knows this reality firsthand. Hurricane Helene destroyed her Rutherfordton home, forcing her into temporary housing. After living in her car for a while, Bortolotto found refuge in ABCCM.

“We had a nice house on Old Stonecutter Road,” she shared. “I’m going to miss it. I thought everything was going to be fine. It wasn’t. Then it got cold, and I found out about this place.”

Bortolotto speaks highly of the shelter, praising their generosity and compassion. “They give you extra blankets if you get cold, they have hot meals, which is really good food,” she added. “They’re very easy to get along with – really laid back, friendly. The staff is the same way: supportive, kind, and makes you want to come back. I haven’t gone a day where my needs aren’t met.”

A Call for Continued Support

As the chilly nights wear on, ABCCM remains committed to helping those seeking shelter from the cold. Their dedicated staff works tirelessly, but additional hands and resources are always welcome.

“We have enough right now, but as we go, those numbers are going to increase,” McElyea emphasized. “This is a marathon, not a sprint.”

People wanting to volunteer their time or contribute financially can visit this link.

The next Code Purple designation, marking yet another freezing night, will be in effect on Tuesday, December 3rd.

How are ‍shelters in Asheville preparing for ‌the potential influx of people ⁣needing shelter after FEMA assistance ends?

## Shelters Brace for Rising Need as ⁣Code Purple Continues

**Host:** Welcome back to the show. As temperatures continue to plummet, we’re⁤ seeing an increase‌ in the need for shelter services here in Asheville. Joining us today is Tim ⁤McElyea, Chief Administrative Officer for Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM). Tim, thanks for being‌ with us.

**Tim McElyea:** Thanks for⁢ having me.

**Host:** So, Tim, we’re on‍ the fifth consecutive night of Code Purple. ‌Can ‌you explain what⁢ that means for shelters like ABCCM?

**Tim​ McElyea:** Absolutely. ⁣Code Purple is ‌activated when temperatures ‍drop below freezing, signaling⁢ a critical need​ for shelter for our vulnerable population experiencing ‍homelessness. This week, ⁣it looks like Code Purple ‌will be in effect every night through the‍ weekend.⁢ [1]

**Host:** That’s a significant stretch.​ How are shelters⁤ like‍ yours coping with this extended​ period⁣ of need?

**Tim McElyea:** It’s definitely ⁢a challenge. We’re stretching‍ our resources thin,⁣ but thankfully we’re currently prepared to meet the immediate needs. We always anticipate a​ surge in⁤ demand once the last FEMA shelter closes,

so we’re evaluating ⁣our capacity and resources as the ⁣situation evolves. [1]

**Host:** You mentioned FEMA shelters. Has Hurricane Helene impacted the situation?

**Tim McElyea:** Yes, indirectly. While⁣ we haven’t seen an immediate influx due to displacement from the hurricane, the combined⁣ effect of increased ‌need ⁣due to the ‍cold ‌weather and the potential for more ​people needing shelter after FEMA assistance ends is certainly ‍something we’re watching closely. [1]

**Host:** It sounds like ABCCM is playing a crucial role in this time of crisis. What can the community do ‌to ⁢help?

**Tim McElyea:** The⁣ community has ⁣been incredibly⁤ supportive, and we truly appreciate it. Donations⁣ of ‍warm clothing, blankets, and toiletries are always in high demand.

**Host:**⁢ Tim, thank you so much for sharing your‌ insights and for all the work ⁢ABCCM is doing to keep our community safe during these frigid nights.

**Tim ‍McElyea:** Thank ⁤you for having me.