Suffolk Safe Beds Program Available For 'Cold Vulnerable'

Patchogue NY

10 January, 2022

3:49 PM

Description

PATCHOGUE, NY — A Suffolk lawmaker urged caution in the cold weather and compassion for the cold vulernable as an arctic blast took over the region on Monday afternoon. Legis. Dominick Thorne, a Republican from Patchogue, highlighted the county's resources to help vulnerable people like the homeless who may be living outside in these freezing temps and others who might not have the money to heat their homes. Thorne, an emergency medical services veteran of 25 years, said he strongly believes that no one should endure the extreme cold. "During cold times like this, we need to work together as a community to make sure our most vulnerable are safe," he said, crediting the Department of Social Services for its "efforts to offer emergency shelter and also their efforts to assist individuals when their heat goes out." "Stay warm and stay safe," he added. Suffolk's Department of Social Services' Safe Beds Program, which becomes operational when the air temperature is at or below 32 degrees, including wind chill, has opened and will shelter anyone in need. The DSS Temporary Housing Assistance Unit can also be called at 631- 854-9547, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Anytime after 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, on weekends, and holidays, the DSS Emergency Services Unit can be reached at 631-854-9100. In-person sheltering assistance is also available at the following service centers from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.: 2 South 2nd St., Deer Park, 631-854-6600200 Wireless Blvd., Hauppauge, 631-853-871480 Middle Country Rd, Coram, 631-854-2300893 E. Main St., Riverhead, 631-852-3500 For those who are out of fuel to heat their homes or need an emergency burner repair, the Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as "HEAP," can be reached 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling 631-853-8820. Any time after 4:30 p.m. on Friday, on weekends and holidays, call the Emergency Services Unit at 631-854-9100. In-person home energy/fuel assistance is also available at the following service centers from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.: 2 South 2nd St., Deer Park, 631-854-6600200 Wireless Blvd., Hauppauge, 631-853-8714