What Is a Code Blue Shelter?
A Code Blue is declared when temperatures or weather conditions become dangerously cold. During these periods, emergency shelters open to protect individuals who do not have a safe place to stay overnight.
AGAPE operates a Code Blue shelter in Bloomsburg, offering overnight shelter on qualifying nights. The shelter provides warmth, safety, and basic accommodations during extreme winter conditions.
Pre-registration is required, which helps us maintain a safe, organized, and supportive environment for everyone involved.
Why Code Blue Shelters Matter in Our Area
Winter in Pennsylvania can be unpredictable and harsh. For individuals experiencing housing insecurity, a single cold night can be dangerous or even deadly.
Code Blue shelters serve as a critical cold weather emergency shelter option for our region. They help fill gaps when temperatures fall below safe levels and traditional options are limited.
Volunteer support plays a direct role in how much support we are able to offer. With enough volunteers, AGAPE has the capacity to open additional shelter space to serve more neighbors during extreme cold.
Who Code Blue Shelters Serve
Code Blue shelters are available to adults in need of emergency overnight shelter during qualifying cold weather events.
These shelters are part of AGAPE’s broader commitment to homeless assistance in Columbia and Montour Counties. They also serve as an important winter resource for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship or housing instability.
How Code Blue Works at AGAPE
When a Code Blue is declared, AGAPE prepares shelter operations based on weather conditions and capacity.
Key things to know:
- Shelters operate only during qualifying cold weather events
- Pre-registration is required for all guests
- Bloomsburg location – 851 Railroad Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815
- Availability and timing may vary based on conditions
Because weather and safety considerations can change quickly, updates are shared on our social media as soon as information is confirmed.
Volunteer Support During Code Blue Nights
Code Blue shelters rely on volunteers to operate safely and consistently during extreme winter weather. Volunteer support helps ensure that guests are welcomed, meals are provided, and shelter operations run smoothly throughout the night.
During Code Blue events, volunteers may assist with shelter setup, meal support, overnight supervision, or cleanup, depending on availability and program needs. All volunteers receive guidance before their shift.
Volunteer availability directly impacts how many neighbors we are able to serve. With additional volunteers, AGAPE has the ability to expand shelter operations and offer support to more individuals during dangerously cold nights.
If you or someone you know is interested in supporting Code Blue shelters as a volunteer, we encourage you to submit an interest form and learn more about available opportunities.
How to Stay Informed About Code Blue Nights
The best way to stay informed about Code Blue shelter openings is to follow AGAPE’s official social media channels.
We share Code Blue updates, registration details, and weather-related announcements on our Facebook page as information becomes available.
If you have any questions about Code Blue shelters, you can also contact us directly:
Phone: 570-317-2210
Email: info@agape-pa.org
How the Community Can Help During Code Blue
Code Blue shelters are a true community effort. When volunteers step forward, more doors can open, and more neighbors can find safety during the coldest nights of the year.
Volunteers and donors play an important role in making these emergency services possible. Support may include volunteering time, donating supplies, or helping share accurate information so neighbors know where to turn for help.
Even small actions can make a meaningful difference in strengthening winter shelter efforts across our community.
More Than a Shelter
Code Blue is about more than opening doors on cold nights. It reflects a community coming together to protect its most vulnerable neighbors.
At AGAPE, Code Blue means safety, dignity, and care when it matters most.
