A Code Blue response has been activated across South Australia as cold conditions place people sleeping rough at increased risk.
The statewide response will run from 9am on Thursday, July 30 until 10am on Friday, July 31.
It follows the metropolitan Code Blue arrangements announced earlier this week, which included the opening of an overnight shelter in Adelaide on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
During the statewide activation, homelessness services and their partners may increase daytime operating hours, staffing levels and street outreach across South Australia.
Services may also distribute clothing, food, water and blankets, promote the support already available in local communities and provide safe places where people can temporarily escape the severe weather.
Additional overnight accommodation or shelter may also be available in some areas during the activation.
Human Services Minister Katrine Hildyard said the response was designed to ensure people sleeping rough could access additional assistance during the coldest conditions.
“We know cold weather can create increased risk for people sleeping rough,” Minister Hildyard said.
“This means giving people somewhere warm and safe to stay, along with the practical support they need during the most severe conditions.”
In metropolitan Adelaide, Baptist Care’s Westcare Centre at 11–19 Millers Court is scheduled to reopen from 5pm on Thursday and remain available until 7am on Friday.
The shelter was also open on Wednesday night as part of the earlier metropolitan response.
Minister Hildyard said Code Blue allowed experienced homelessness workers to extend their services and reach more people.
“Code Blue gives these excellent workers what they need to extend their hours and reach more people — through more outreach, more blankets, hot food and a warm place to go,” she said.
Homeless Connect SA will operate around the clock throughout the activation.
Anyone who is homeless, at risk of homelessness or concerned about a person sleeping rough can call Homeless Connect SA on 1800 003 308 to find out what support is available.
Available services and operating hours may differ between locations and change during the activation.
For more head to, https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/emergencies-and-safety/
