New City, NY, – County Executive Ed Day and Commissioner of Social Services Joan Silvestri announced the opening date of the Rockland County Warming Center, November 1, 2021. Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland will once again be operating the Warming Center for homeless single adults at the Dr. Robert L. Yeager Health Center in Pomona.
“The causes of homelessness are complex, and our Warming Center will continue to help the most vulnerable people in our County remain safe while also helping to connect them to services they need like immunizations, mental health screenings and permanent housing options. Providing a warm and safe place for persons during this pandemic is a priority in protecting the health of individuals and our community at large,” said County Executive Day.
The Warming Center will operate from November 1, 2021, through April 30, 2022. The Center will open each night regardless of the temperature and remain open during the day when the temperature, including wind chill, is 32 degrees or below.
“In order to be in compliance with COVID protocols, we have modified the facility and established safety practices to ensure adherence to NYSDOH COVID-19 safety guidelines. All staff and guests will be appropriately screened (including temperature checks), wear masks and practice social distancing. Appropriate PPE has been secured and will be made available to staff and guests,” said Commissioner Silvestri.
The Center offers showers and laundry facilities. Dinner and breakfast are provided for overnight guests and lunch is served during the day when the center is open. There is security on-site when the Warming Center is operational.
The Center will open on Monday, November 1, 2021, at 5 PM. The locations where individuals can be picked up for transportation to the Center and the pickup times are listed below:
Nyack – 4:25 PM & 8:00 PM South Broadway and Burd Street (in front of the First Reformed Church of Nyack)
Haverstraw – 5:00 PM & 6:20 PM Village of Haverstraw Commuter parking lot (across from Village Hall)
Spring Valley – 5:30 PM & 7:05 PM Spring Valley Parking lot west of Key Bank on Route 59 by Planet Fitness
Pomona – Department of Social Services 5:00 PM at 50 Sanatorium Road (at the bus shelter Monday-Friday only)
The Rockland County Department of Social Services will continue to run its long-established Emergency Family Shelter for children and families.