Wilmington, DE and Newark, DE have had code purple systems in place for years thanks to the Friendship House. Churches and a bunch of volunteers open sanctuary to the homeless to get off the street when temperatures drop below 20 degrees which has been happening all week in Delaware. Kent County began establishing this system for the season this year and I’m happy to hear that people in need have a place to go. For Code Purple Sanctuary locations in Kent County call 1-800-733-6816.
Today is a high of 20 degrees even in the daytime, right now as I’m typing this is is 9 degrees. The windchill is negative!
This week my family and me have packed up about 100 bags already to give out to the sanctuary locations. Last night my neighbors Barb and Sammy Lawson came over to help. Today my Mom will be bringing 25 bags and warm clothing to Calvary Baptist Church in Newark, DE on East Main Street because they are the code purple location today. My Mom has been bringing bags to locations this week during her lunch break since I’m in school.
The Newark Empowerment Center opens from 1pm to 4pm also to serve lunch to those in need.
I also have a flier of emergency shelters for Delaware and you can download it here.
If you are able to help people in need please take the time. Offer a hand to them, offer a smile, offer a 3B bag or pack up your very own. If you have extra winter weather clothing, put it in the car with you and if you see someone on the street you can give them the clothing and also let them know where they can go to seek sanctuary.
Thank you!
I was so happy to read about how you have been helping during the “code purple” days. This morning I have been gathering warm coats and clothing to give to your Mom so she can distribute them to those in need. Keep up the good work. So nice to see your friends and neighbors helping out. The kindness of others always warms my heart.
Happy Valentine’s Day to all!
Gabby
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