Emergency Response to Save Lives

What is Code Blue?

Code Blue is a critical emergency response to protect the health and well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness during periods of extreme cold weather. When temperatures drop to dangerous levels, Code Blue is activated, which triggers a coordinated effort to provide emergency shelter and support to those who are most vulnerable. Emergency shelters and warming centers are opened, and outreach teams are deployed to locate and assist individuals who may be living outdoors or in other unsafe conditions.

Code Blue plays a vital role in preventing hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related illnesses or injuries that can be life-threatening for people experiencing homelessness. It is a crucial part of the larger effort to end homelessness and ensure that everyone has access to safe and stable housing

Code Blue in Union County

Union County Department of Human Services, in conjunction with the Division of Emergency Management and Union County Police participates in the Statewide Code Blue program. The threshold for activating CB is an overnight temperature of at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

All CB shelter placements are made by the Division of Social Services, during business hours 8:30 am – 3:00 pm, and NJ 211 during afterhours/evenings and weekends. Along with providing temporary shelter, CB helps tackle issues related to chronic homelessness. Persons seeking emergency shelter on a CB alert are provided with screening and counseling to help them get back on their feet over the long run.

Interested in receiving a notification when Code Blue is activated? Please email codeblue@ucnj.org and include the following information: your first & last name and e-mail address. Once provided, you will receive an email containing a registration link allowing you to modify your new account and add your contact information.