BROCKPORT, N.Y. — With temperatures expected to drop near zero in the coming days, a Code Blue has been issued in several nearby counties. This allows individuals without a warm place to stay access to warming shelters, including in Brockport and Albion

News10NBC reported from the Brockport First Baptist Church, where Oak Orchard Health is using the speace to accommodate those in need. The church can host up to 120 people.

“What we do is open up our doors to provide a safe, warm, loving environment for those that are unhoused, who get stranded, who are without power, and they need a place to come to get warm, to have a cup of coffee, [and] to get community resources as well,” said Julia Carasone, Warming Center Manager for Oak Orchard Health.

Visitors to the shelters can access cots, bathrooms, and a food pantry. They’re also given toiletries, blankets, and backpacks filled with items like fleece clothing and socks.

Michelle O’Dell, who works as the Brockport Warming Center’s Team Lead, says she hopes to see more support for warming centers in smaller towns like Brockport and Albion.

“As a village resident, I think it’s amazing. I think it’s just another resource that, you know, smaller villages and towns and these hamlets don’t particularly get funded to have,” said O’Dell. “It’s really nice to see these programs establishing out here because it’s always looked at as an inner city urban issue. And it really isn’t.”

Oak Orchard Health plans to open additional warming centers in Perry and Batavia in February.

Those in need of help in Monroe County or Orleans County can contact Oak Orchard Health at (585)340-1355, or via their Facebook pages for Brockport or Orleans County.

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