Code Blue Information

New location starting November 24, 2025 – 227 Cherry Street in Ithaca, NY


Opening on November 24, 2025, the Code Blue shelter will operate 24/7 into April 2026, serving as a daytime warming center with support services and providing beds every night, regardless of Code Blue status or weather conditions. You can review this flyer(PDF, 2MB) for more information about services and contact information. Volunteers of America(PDF, 675KB) will operate the shelter, using a model that combines safe shelter and supportive services. You can also review VOA’s Good Neighbor Plan(PDF, 206KB) to learn more about daily operations and VOA’s commitment to community partnerships.
 

Eligibility:

  • Adults 18 years and older.
  • Walk-ins accepted. No referral necessary.
  • Low-barrier.

Hours of Operation:

  • Warming center with case management services: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Nighttime shelter: 4 p.m. – 8 a.m.

Services offered:

  • Well-trained, experienced staff providing 24/7 coverage and security, including weekends, evenings, and overnight.
  • Meal provided on-site.
  • Transportation services to bring guests safely to the shelter.
  • Peer support and case management services.

Transportation Details

  • If you need transportation to the shelter, please call in advance between 1–3 p.m.
    • Monday through Friday: Call Tompkins County DSS at (607) 274-5680.
    • Weekends: Call the shelter directly at (607) 252-9280.
  • Pick-up Locations and Times:
    • 4:30 p.m. – Tompkins County Department of Social Services (320 W. State St.)
    • 4:45 p.m. – In front of Tompkins County Public Library (101 E. Green St.)

Contact Information:

  • Ithaca Shelter: (607) 252-9280

To provide feedback on sheltering services, submit your comments or questions through our online feedback form.

To receive email notifications from Tompkins County about sheltering updates, sign up now.

Scroll down to ‘Health and Human Services’ and select ‘Addressing Homelessness'.

Code Blue access from October 15 through November 23, 2025

A Code Blue alert must be called when temperatures are expected to fall below 32° F (0° C) for two consecutive hours. When an alert is announced, Code Blue sheltering will be provided and can be accessed:

During business hours (M-F 8 am-4:30 pm):

  • Visit DSS at 320 W MLK/State Street, or
  • Call DSS Emergency Housing Services at (607) 274-5030

After hours and on weekends:

  • Call non-emergency dispatch at (607) 272-2444 to be connected to DSS on-call.

To receive email notifications about Code Blue activation from Tompkins County, NY, sign up now.

 

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