A state-wide Code Red extreme weather response for people sleeping rough will be activated today as the mercury is set to soar above 40C across South Australia.
The SA Housing Authority has issued a Code Red due to expected scorching temperatures and forecast wind.
During a Code Red activation, Housing SA, together with its non-government partners, makes additional accommodation and services available for extended hours for people sleeping rough in the hot weather.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said increasing homelessness services was vital in the extreme heat.
“Keeping vulnerable South Australians safe and well is our priority,” said Minister Lensink.
“Due to today’s extreme November heat, the SA Housing Authority and its non-government partners have made the decision to extend agency operating hours to ensure people sleeping rough are keeping cool and well-hydrated during the scorching heat.”
Minister Lensink thanked the people working on the ground.
“It is thanks to these services and staff that we are able to help people stay safe and well in extreme weather,” said Minister Lensink.
The following homelessness agencies will extend operating hours for Wednesday, November 20:
• Westcare (Baptist Care SA) 11/19 Millers Ct Adelaide, will be open from 9am to 8pm.
• Trace-A-Place (SYC) 135 Currie Street Adelaide, 9am to 7pm.
• Hutt Street Centre 257 Hutt St, will be open from 7am to 5pm.
• Street to ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ will be providing additional outreach services to people rough sleeping
• Uniting Communities U City Level 3, 43 Franklin Street will have an air-conditioned space for public use from 9am-5pm.
• The ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway Service will continue to operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Anyone who is rough sleeping is encouraged to contact the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway on 1800 003 308
• In regional areas, anyone who requires services is urged to call the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway, which operates 24/7 on 1800 003 308.
