Rockland County Opens Warming Center For The Season

NEW CITY, NY —The Rockland County Warming Center has reopened for the 2020-21 winter season just in time for the first blast of freezing weather.

SEE: High Winds, Frigid Temps: Hudson Valley Hazardous Outlooks

Catholic Charities will once again operate the center for homeless single adults at the Dr. Robert L. Yeager Health Center in Pomona.

“The causes of homelessness are complex, and this Warming Center will continue to help the most vulnerable people in our County remain safe and get connected to the services they need. Providing a warm and safe place for persons during this pandemic is a priority in protecting the health of individuals and the community,” said County Executive Ed Day in an announcement.

The Warming Center will operate from Nov. 1 through April 30. 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.

“The opening and operation of the Warming Center is particularly challenging this year. We have modified the facility and established practices and protocols 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 of Social Services Joan 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 pick-up locations and 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.