Delco reminds residents of ‘code blue’ aid for people lacking shelter

As bitterly cold weather grips the region — on the heels of significant snowfall — Delaware County authorities are urging residents to help them get unhoused individuals off the street.

“If you see someone who is in need of emergency shelter during extreme cold, call the Delaware County Homeless Outreach Team at 267-671-4357,” the county’s health department advised in a recent Facebook post.

For people who are unhoused themselves or know someone who is, the Delaware County Coordinated Entry System offers a “gateway” to county-funded emergency shelters. Individuals are advised to first call or visit a coordinated assessment service location to help determine their needs and match them with available housing solutions. Some examples of those locations include the Community Action Agency at 896 Main St. in Darby (610-947-0693) or Horizon House, Inc. at 610-328-1306, ext. 31131.

According to the 2025-2026 version of the Delaware County Cold Plan, there is officially a “code blue” in effect when the forecasted temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below — as will be the case throughout this week in the Philadelphia area. During a code blue, the county works with local shelter providers to activate additional beds to accommodate increased demand. Those include the Life Center of Eastern Delaware County and the Watkins Center, both located in Upper Darby, and the Salvation Army in Chester. Breaking Bread is currently closed for renovations.

The Upper Darby Township Council earlier this month voted to reallocate $100,000 for an emergency homelessness assistance program, with the goal of aiding local shelters that are struggling with funding issues.