FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 29, 2017
Contact: Jane Lerner, Director of Strategic Communications
Office of the County Executive (845) 638-5645
lernerj@co.rockland.ny.us

Rockland County Executive Ed Day Urges Residents in Need to Use Warming Center

NEW CITY, NY – With no end in sight to the cold snap, Rockland County Executive Ed Day reminds residents that the County's new Warming Center is open and accepting occupants.

"This cold is life-threatening," the County Executive said. "We urge anyone who needs shelter to take advantage of the services we offer."

The County opened the Warming Center in November in partnership with the nonprofit organization Helping Hands.

It marks the first time that Rockland County has offered an overnight facility for single men and women who lack permanent housing or who have been displaced from their housing.

Approximately 50 people have been using the warming center every night since the frigid cold began.

"This shows how much this facility was needed," County Executive Day said. "I'm proud that my administration was able to form this public-private partnership to make it a reality."

The Warming Center offers a safe place to stay, hot food, shower and laundry facilities. It also gives people the opportunity to meet with staff from the Department of Social Services to find out if they qualify for housing or other assistance, including help finding employment.

Members of the Rockland County Department of Health are also available to provide flu shots and other services.

"We offer more than just the basics to survive the winter," the County Executive said. "We offer compassion and services that can lead to steady housing for some of our most vulnerable residents."

The Warming Center is located at a secure facility with onsite security at the Dr. Robert L. Yeager Health Center in Pomona.

Buses are provided by Helping Hands from locations in Nyack, Spring Valley and Haverstraw.

Pick up times are from 6-6:30 p.m. and 7:30-8 p.m., every evening at:
• Nyack: South Broadway in front of the First Reformed Church.
• Haverstraw: Commuter parking lot across from Village Hall.
• Spring Valley: Parking lot near Route 45 and Route 59.

The County continues to run its long-established shelter for homeless families.

The Warming Center will remain open during the day when the temperature is 32 degrees or colder. On warmer days, guests are transported to an outreach center run by Helping Hands in Spring Valley or other locations.

For more information about the Warming Center, contact 845-356-0100 or 845-709-2415.