Schenectady County has declared its first Code Blue for the 2024-2025 winter season. A Code Blue Order is in place from 8pm tonight until 7am on Monday 4 November as temperatures are forecast to be below freezing.

When a Code Blue is declared, the county’s homeless shelters extend their hours of operation to allow those in need of shelter to stay indoors during inclement winter weather. Schenectady County has worked with providers to create additional Code Blue beds over the past few years to increase the number of people who can be served when the temperature drops below freezing.

“Working with our community partners, we’ve created a network of safe and warm spaces available to residents when temperatures drop below freezing,” said Schenectady County Legislator Michelle Ostrelich, chair of the Health, Housing and Human Services Committee. “As we begin the winter season, we remind everyone to protect themselves and their families from cold weather injuries, including hypothermia and frostbite.”

For those in need of Code Blue emergency shelter or housing, please contact the following:

Primary code blue shelter locations:

Bethesda House, which operates out of State Street Presbyterian Church
Corner of State Street and Catherine Street
Schenectady, NY 12307
(518) 902-5255
Bethesda House shelter welcomes all persons without restrictions or qualifications, providing beds, shower facilities, dinner and breakfast for adult men and women.

The bridges of NY
428 Duane Ave.
Schenectady, NY 12304
(518) 557-1680

The Salvation Army’s Evangeline Booth Miracle House (Women Only)
168 Lafayette Street
Schenectady, NY 12305
(518) 370-0276

Schenectady City Mission
425 Hamilton Street
Schenectady, NY 12305
(518) 579-9339

Schenectady County Department of Social Services
797 Broadway, Schenectady, NY 12305
During normal business hours: (518) 388-4470
DSS On-Call (after 16:30)
(518) 382-0383

Schenectady County is also warning residents to take precautions in the coming colder days.

The Schenectady County Office of Emergency Management provided safety tips for residents to protect themselves, their families and loved ones from freezing conditions. Fire hazards are greatly increased in winter because alternative heating sources are often used without proper safety precautions.