The Saratoga County Code Blue Shelter opened its doors for its 10th season in October 2023, under the stewardship of Shelters of Saratoga. This vital community resource is supported by Saratoga County and aligns with New York State’s Emergency Measures for the Homeless, which mandates social service districts to provide shelter during inclement winter weather.
Despite an unseasonably warm winter, the need for shelter was greater than ever. Within two weeks of opening, all 75 cots at our 120 South Broadway location were occupied, illustrating the persistent need in our community. The shelter remained a sanctuary through the cold months, closing only after the last flakes of winter had settled, on April 14, 2024.
Here’s a glimpse into what we achieved together this season:
unduplicated guests
nights open
meals served
%
of guests stayed 1 night
%
of guests stayed 2 to 30 days
%
of guests stayed 31 to 90+ days
guests moved into housing
guests entered treatment
guests moved into Emergency Shelter
The backbone of our Code Blue operations continues to be the generous support from our community. Over 11,000 meals were donated by local restaurants, faith-based groups, and civic organizations, served by dedicated volunteers who committed over 300 hours to ensure our guests were fed and cared for. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dinner donors for their significant contributions:
PJ’s Bar-B-QSA
Business for Good
Clifton Park Girl Scouts Troops #2037 and #2118
Fat Paulies Deli
Franklin Square Market
Green Fork
iRun Local
Lifeworks
Natalie Maxwell
Norah Brennan
Old Bryan Inn
Princepessa Elena Society
Presbyterian – United Church of Christ (formerly PNECC)
St. Mary’s Crescent
St. Clements
St. Stephen’s Church
These establishments and groups have been instrumental in nourishing both the bodies and spirits of our guests, and we are incredibly grateful for their support!
We are proud to report that 30 guests have transitioned to housing, 26 are continuing to receive shelter and housing services with Shelters of Saratoga or RISE’s low-barrier shelter, and 14 have chosen to enter clinical care facilities. These transitions underscore our commitment not only to immediate needs but also to the longer-term well-being of our guests.
The Code Blue shelter will reopen in October 2024 at the same location. We are continually preparing to welcome those in need of shelter, food, and services, with our street outreach efforts beginning well in advance of the shelter’s opening.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved—from our staff and board to every volunteer and donor—for another successful season. Your dedication is what turns our mission into action, creating a warmer, safer Saratoga for everyone.
