Tag: delaware 211

Snow with a thermometer sticking out showing freezing temperatures

Caring For Our Neighbors In Extreme Cold

On By cmanneringIn 3B OutreachLeave a comment

When temperatures drop below freezing, a lot of us think about grabbing an extra blanket or turning up the heat. For people who are living outside or who are not stably housed, freezing weather can be life-threatening.

That is why 3B Brae’s Brown Bags partners with Code Purple emergency sanctuaries and warming stations, providing healthy “to go” bags that guests can take with them when they leave. We do this all year long, but we know that on nights with bitter wind and icy sidewalks, community care really matters.

This post is part story, part safety guide. We want to:

  • Explain how our to-go bags support people using warming stations and shelters
  • Share simple steps to keep volunteers and guests safe while packing and handing out bags
  • Highlight Delaware 2-1-1 as a key resource for anyone who needs help finding shelter or services
  • Go over the signs of hypothermia that many people do not realize are serious

What is a 3B “to go” bag?

Our to-go bags are meant to be simple, respectful, and useful. Depending on donations and season, a bag might include things like:

  • Healthy, shelf-stable snacks (granola bars, low-sodium crackers, nut or seed packs, fruit cups with pop tops, fruit snacks, popcorn, soft breakfast bars)
  • A bottle of water or a low-sugar drink
  • Resource information, such as Delaware 2-1-1 and local support services
  • Seasonal extras when possible, like hand warmers, a pair of socks, or lip balm

Emergency sanctuaries and warming stations often have a limited window of time that they are open. Guests may have to leave early in the morning and walk or wait outside again. A grab-and-go bag is one small way to say, “We see you, and we care about what happens when you step back out into the cold.”

Safety first when packing and handing out bags

We want kindness to be paired with good safety practices. That protects the people we serve and the volunteers who help. Here are some simple guidelines you can use when packing or distributing 3B-style bags with us or on your own.

Food safety

  • Choose shelf-stable foods
    Pick items that do not require refrigeration and that are safe at room temperature
  • Label anything with common allergens
    If your bags include peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, or gluten, label the outside of the bag or the item. A simple “Contains peanuts” can help someone keep themselves safe.

Health and hygiene for volunteers

  • Wash or sanitize hands before packing
    If you are packing a lot of bags at once, set up a handwashing station or keep hand sanitizer nearby and take quick breaks to use it.
  • Follow site rules
    Each sanctuary, warming station, or shelter will have its own safety rules. Please follow the directions of staff on site. They know their space and their guests.

Emotional and physical safety at distribution

  • Respect personal space
    Some guests have experienced trauma. Offer a bag with a smile, but do not insist if someone says “No, thank you.”
  • No photos without permission
    Being in a hard moment should not mean losing your privacy. Never take photos of guests without clear consent, and follow the site’s photo policy.
  • Use a buddy system
    Volunteers should work in pairs or groups, especially in the dark or in bad weather. Check in with each other and with staff if something feels off.

Kindness is powerful, and it is even more powerful when it is also careful and thoughtful.

Delaware 2-1-1: A lifeline for shelter and more

One of the best tools we have in Delaware is Delaware 2-1-1.

What is Delaware 2-1-1?
Delaware 2-1-1 is a free, confidential helpline that connects people to health and human services across the state. It can help with things like food assistance, emergency and transitional shelter, medical care, mental health support, utility help, clothing, and more.

How to reach Delaware 2-1-1:

  • Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Delaware
  • Text your zip code to 898211
  • Use live chat at delaware211.org

Delaware 2-1-1 is available 24/7 and offers multilingual support.

When Code Purple or other cold-weather alerts are in effect, 2-1-1 can help people find warming centers, emergency shelters, and related resources. State announcements often tell residents to call Delaware 2-1-1 to be connected with Code Purple locations and extra cold-weather beds.

If you are volunteering and someone asks, “Where can I go tonight?” or “Who can help me with rent or food?”, it is completely okay to say:

“You can call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211. They can help you find shelter and other resources.”

You do not need to know every answer. You just need to know where to point people.

Hypothermia 101: Signs you should not ignore

Cold is not just uncomfortable. It can be dangerous. Hypothermia happens when a person’s core body temperature drops below 95°F, and it is a medical emergency.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight these warning signs in adults:

  • Shivering
  • Feeling very tired or exhausted
  • Confusion or acting “not quite like themselves”
  • Fumbling hands or trouble doing simple tasks
  • Memory loss
  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness or trouble staying awake

For babies, the signs look different. Watch for:

  • Bright red, cold skin
  • Very low energy or being unusually quiet and still

If you see these signs in yourself or someone else:

  1. Call 911 right away if the person is confused, not responding, or very drowsy.
  2. Move the person to a warm, dry place if you can do so safely.
  3. Remove any wet clothing and cover with blankets, coats, or other warm layers.
  4. Offer warm drinks if the person is awake and can swallow, but do not give alcohol or very hot liquids.

Do not rub arms or legs hard to “warm them up.” That can sometimes cause more harm in serious cold-related injuries.

Frostbite is a concern, too.

People who have hypothermia often have frostbite too. Frostbite is damage to the skin and tissue from freezing temperatures. The CDC and other health agencies note symptoms like:

  • Numbness or tingling in fingers, toes, nose, ears, or cheeks
  • Skin that looks pale, grayish, or waxy
  • Skin that feels unusually firm or hard

If you suspect frostbite, follow medical advice from 911 or a health professional. In general, get the person to a warm place and, if possible, avoid walking on frostbitten feet or toes.

How you can help

Here are a few simple ways to support your neighbors during extreme cold:

  • Volunteer to help pack to-go bags or deliver them to partner sites
  • Collect items like shelf-stable snacks, bottled water, new socks, and hand warmers
  • Learn Delaware 2-1-1 by heart so you can share it when someone needs help
  • Teach kids and students about food insecurity, empathy, and cold-weather safety in age-appropriate ways
  • Share information about hypothermia and warming centers on your social media or with your community group

At 3B Brae’s Brown Bags, we believe small acts of kindness can stack up into real change. A paper bag with snacks, a warm word at the door of a sanctuary, a phone number shared at the right time, all of that can help someone make it through a very cold night.

Thank you for being part of a community that shows up, especially when the temperature drops and the need rises.

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

The Harsh Reality of Winter for the Vulnerable

On By cmanneringIn Real LifeLeave a comment

Winter poses a significant threat to those without a stable home. The National Coalition for the Homeless notes that extreme cold weather can lead to life-threatening conditions like hypothermia and frostbite, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. For those living on the streets, the cold is not just an inconvenience; it’s a matter of survival. Shelters often become overwhelmed, and many are left to brave the elements.

A man in a coat laying on a sidewalk with a sign that says help

Food Insecurity in the Cold

The cold months also bring a unique set of challenges for food-insecure households. As reported by Axios, the combination of severe winter conditions and rising food prices creates a dire situation for vulnerable populations. Families must choose between keeping the heat on or buying groceries, a decision that can lead to dangerous health outcomes, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Resources in Delaware

  • DE 211: Delaware 2-1-1 stands as a vital lifeline for those grappling with homelessness and food insecurity. This free, confidential referral and information helpline connects individuals and families to essential health and human services across Delaware and Salem County, NJ.
  • Food Bank of Delaware: Through a network of community partners, the Food Bank of Delaware distributes food to over 114,000 food-insecure individuals, providing a critical lifeline during the winter months.
  • Friendship House of Delaware: Offers a range of services to support those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. From providing meals and emergency housing to facilitating access to medical care and community engagement, Friendship House embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy, ensuring that no one has to face the harsh winter alone.

Resources in Pennsylvania

  • PA 211: This service offers a comprehensive list of extreme weather shelters across Pennsylvania, including locations like Second Avenue Commons in Pittsburgh, which provides winter shelter and overflow options during severe weather conditions.
  • Delaware County: The county’s Homeless Services Coalition and Continuum of Care work to ensure barrier-free access to services for the homeless, including emergency shelters and rapid rehousing programs.
  • Philadelphia: Organizations like Project HOME and Philly House offer emergency shelters specifically for men and families, respectively, with extended capacity during Code Blue conditions.

Resources in Maryland

  • Maryland Department of Human Services: While the Bureau of Homeless Services has moved to the Department of Housing and Community Development, resources like the Maryland Community Services Locator and Maryland 2-1-1 remain available for those in need of assistance with housing, utilities, and food.
  • Deep Roots, Clairvaux Farm: Located in Earleville, MD, this facility provides transitional housing for families with children. It offers up to 12 apartments and support services.

The Need for Comprehensive Support

The challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity during winter are multifaceted. Beyond immediate shelter and food, there’s a need for comprehensive social support systems that address the underlying issues driving these crises. Poverty, unemployment, housing affordability, healthcare access, and racial inequities all contribute to the persistent problem of food insecurity and homelessness.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, remember that help is just a call or message away. Together, we can make a difference, one warm meal and one safe night at a time.

Emergency sanctuary during winter

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach, AnnouncementsLeave a comment

Today is the first official “Code Purple” day that we have been notified of here in Northern Delaware. I’m sure there have been other “code” days of various colors across the country as the temperatures have dropped this winter. When these codes are activated we are available to provide our 3B Brae’s Brown Bags to locations upon their request. During the winter, our bags include healthy snacks, water, a page of resources and handwarmers.

When a Code Purple is called in Delaware, it means there are locations set up to offer emergency sanctuary to our addressless friends. The locations are usually open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. so that patrons can come in for dinner and have a warm place to sleep for the night. Depending on the location in Delaware, there are a variety of places to stay. The best way to find out which location is open on any given night is to call 2-1-1 on your phone or text your zip code to 898211. People in Delaware and Salem County (NJ) can use Delaware 2-1-1 to find information.

If you see someone on the street, please consider calling or texting the number above so you can provide the details of resources to those in need.

Effects of below freezing temps

Exposure to temperatures below freezing can have significant impacts on a person’s health. The human body’s response to cold weather includes cardiovascular stresses as it struggles to retain heat, which can lead to illnesses such as hypothermia. Vulnerable individuals, such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly, are more susceptible to adverse effects due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature.

Cold temperatures can increase the risk of heart attacks, particularly for people with cardiovascular disease, as the body’s natural defense system causes blood vessels near the skin to contract, leading to increased strain on the heart.

Additionally, cold weather can be dangerous for those with respiratory diseases, as it can lead to an increased risk of conditions like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Symptoms of hypothermia

Symptoms of hypothermia can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but some common signs and symptoms, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include:

  • Shivering (in the early stages)
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Loss of coordination
  • Stiffness in the arms and legs
  • Bluish or pale skin
  • Weak pulse
  • Slow, shallow breathing

If you suspect someone is experiencing hypothermia, call 911 immediately. If it is safe for you to intervene while waiting for medical help to arrive, move the person to a warm place, remove any wet clothing, and cover them with blankets. If the person is conscious, give them warm fluids to drink.

How can you help?

During the winter, there are several ways to help the homeless and ensure they stay warm and healthy. Some of the most effective ways to provide assistance include:

  1. Donate Warm Clothing and Blankets: Homeless individuals need warm clothing such as coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks to protect themselves from the cold.
  2. Create Winter Care Packages: Assembling care packages with essential items like non-perishable food, hygiene products, and warm clothing can make a significant difference in the lives of the homeless.
  3. Offer Warm Food: Providing warm meals can help combat the effects of cold weather, as the body requires more energy to stay warm during the winter.
  4. Donate Old Jackets, Gloves, and Socks: Donating old but still usable winter clothing items can provide much-needed warmth to those without shelter.
  5. Raise Awareness: Increasing awareness about homelessness during the winter can help build empathy and encourage support from the community.
  6. Volunteer: Volunteering at shelters or organizations that support the homeless can have a direct and positive impact on their well-being.

The winter months are nearing

On By cmanneringIn 3B Outreach1 Comment

An emergency sanctuary opens as temperatures fall below 32 degrees, when resources are available, in Delaware and across the country. Depending on your locations the alert is called something like “Code Purple” which is what we call it in Delaware. Other states may refer to this system as “Code Blue.” The sanctuary opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 6 a.m. which means our addressless neighbors have a place to sleep when the temperatures typically drop to their lowest point. However, during the day there are still few places available to get out of the bitter cold.

Brae’s Brown Bags provides “go-bags” to the patrons who stay overnight at emergency sancutaries. In addition to healthy food, we add winter weather clothing and hand warmers knowing that the person receiving the bag might not have shelter again until 6 p.m. the next day. If the temperatures are above 32 degrees, they may not have shelter at all.

If you see someone in need, please let them know where they can seek help. Not all homeless individuals prefer going to shelters, but an emergency sanctuary is temporary relief from the cold. If someone refuses to come in out of the cold, we provide socks, hats, scarves and gloves to help them retain as much body heat as possible. Our bodies create heat by metabolizing food and water, for our addressless friends this is a challenge as they do not always know where their next meal will come from.

Recognizing Cold-Related Emergencies:
• Moderate hypothermia – [core body temperature 82° F-90° F (28° C-32° C)]
• Severe hypothermia – [core body temperature < 82° F (< 28° C)]
• Shivering is lost and cooling is rapid.
• Hypoventilation, respiratory acidosis, hypoxemia, aspiration pneumonia,
atelectasis progress to apnea, and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Pancreatitis, gastric erosions
• Hyperkalemia, hyperglycemia, lactic acidosis
• Rigidity progresses to rhabdomyolysis
• Hemoconcentration, hypercoagulability progress to disseminated intravascular coagulation, and bleeding
• Hyporeflexia, agitation, hallucination, dilated pupils progress to areflexia, coma, absent pupil responses
• Arrhythmia

For additional resources and locations of shelters or sanctuaries, Dial 2-1-1.
or text your Zip Code to 898-211.

Looking forward…

As you know, Braeden is always looking to enhance the kindness we see in the world. He has mentioned that it would be nice if locations were able to offer a place to wash up and clean laundry. If you know of a way we can initiate this idea please leave a comment below.

The Greater Newark Resource Summit

On By BraedenIn 3B Outreach2 Comments

About a month ago I had a chance to attend and talk at the 1st Annual Greater Newark Area Resource Summit which was held at Clayton Hall.

This event was put together by Mayor Polly Sierer, Paul Baumbach, State Representative, and the amazing staff with Delaware 2-1-1 incuding Donna Snyder-White, the director. With speakers including Rita Landgraf, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), and Michelle Taylor, president and CEO of the United Way of Delaware.

I am honored I had an opportunity to talk and even more honored that Representative Paul Baumbach introduced me! He was very nice and made me feel important and special. He said he did not know whether to be impressed or intimidated by me which I thought was funny. My Mom has told me that Representative Baumbach does a lot in our community and I know that must be true because everybody knew him and because he remembered everybody’s name. I have a really hard time remembering everybody.  He made me feel very important and I am sure that he and Mayor Sierer are working very hard to help fix the homeless situation in our state, especially in Newark.

When I talked with everyone I just tried to explain a little bit about how I feel like everyone in the room is already doing big things to help people but that together, working as a team, I know we can do even bigger things to help make a difference in our community.

I hope that I get to continue to be a part of the work happening to help the homeless in Newark. It would really mean a lot to me.

You can read more about this event in this very nice Newark Post article by Josh Shannon.

Summit highlights need for nonprofits to collaborate – February 15, 2016

Also I want to thank my friend Laura Nash again for taking the morning to volunteer with us and help us with our booth. She is a really great volunteer. I need to find a way to get her an award.

‪#‎211Day‬ ‪#‎211DE‬ ‪#‎gnars2016

 

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