Crime & Safety
Warming Centers Open In Union County As Locals Battle the Big Freeze
Warming Centers open around Union County as Code Blue procedures help those in need find a place to stay warm.
Union County is facing the worst cold streak since 2004 this holiday weekend, prompting local officials to set up warming centers around the county to help keep local residents safe from the dangerously cold conditions.
>>Related: WEATHER UPDATE: How Much It Will Snow, and How Long
The cold front has caused high winds to blow through the county, sending temperatures plummeting throughout the weekend. Help is available for those without a warm place to stay, through the Code Blue program, a rep from the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders stated.
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Code Blue is designed to coordinate municipal and County resources, to help homeless persons find a place at a shelter or warming center.
Residents who observe anyone outdoors who is asleep or in need of assistance should contact their local police department, which will arrange for transportation to a shelter.
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In addition, the following warming locations have been provided to the County by municipal officials or have been publicized through local media. Availability and hours may change, and public buildings will be closed on Monday, February 16, so always call ahead before coming to a warming center.
Warming Centers in Union County
Elizabeth
Second Macedonia Baptist Church
1251 Fairmount Avenue
After 4:00 p.m.
Elizabeth Police Department
After 4:00 p.m.
Fanwood
The Chelsea Senior Living Center, 295 South Avenue.
Linden
Linden Library - 31 East Henry Street:
Operating Hours:
Monday and Wednesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The library is open on the following Saturdays: January 10, January 24, February 7, February 21, March 7, March 21
The library is closed on Sundays, and it will also be closed on January 17, 19, 31, February 12, 14, 16, 28, and March 14, 28
John T. Gregorio Recreation Center
330 Helen Street:
Operating Hours:
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Linden Multi-Purpose Center - 1025 John Street:
Operating Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday -- 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tuesday, Thursday -- 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Roselle Park
The Roselle Park Community Casano Center
314 Chestnut St.
Hours:
Monday - Thursday. 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Friday – 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Scotch Plains
Municipal Building
430 Park Avenue
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