Emergency Shelters Preparing For "White Flag" Initiative in Case of Severe Cold Weather

8/25/2005

Agencies providing shelter for homeless persons are preparing to implement their "White Flag" (WF) initiative based on the severe cold-weather forecast over the next few days. The WF initiative is in place at The Healing Place, Helen Wright Center for Women (formerly the Ark), Raleigh Rescue Mission and South Wilmington Street Center. White Flag events are identified by extreme inclement weather and a physical white flag displayed at the facility.

All men should first contact the South Wilmington Street Center for referral, and all women should contact the Helen Wright Center for Women or the Raleigh Rescue Mission. 

WF events are called when the temperature is projected to be 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below any time between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., OR there is heavy and/or steady precipitation and the temperature is projected to be 38 degrees Fahrenheit or below between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

In extremely cold conditions, the White Flag Network sites will provide shelter beyond their regular capacities. WF events do not include natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes; in these events, all citizens will be able to access services at community disaster shelters.

The participating White Flag sites are:

• Sharon Brown, Communications Director, 919-212-9371
• Kay Ferguson, White Flag Program Developer, 919-623-0650

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