Continued cold overnight temperatures in regional areas have prompted an extension of the regional Code Blue extreme winter weather response currently in place in parts of regional South Australia.
Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink, said the Code Blue had been extended until 9am Wednesday, 26 June 2019.
The affected areas include Berri, Ceduna, Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Port Augusta, Port Pirie and Whyalla.
“Given the predicted ongoing cold overnight temperatures, a Code Blue has been extended until Wednesday morning in these areas to assist those who need it,” said Minister Lensink.
“Originally planned to cease this morning, the extended Code Blue activation will give people sleeping rough an extra two nights of assistance if they need it.”
So far, 25 instances of support have been provided to people rough sleeping during the regional Code Blue, including welfare checks, food and emergency accommodation.
For people sleeping rough in these regional areas over the next few days, the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness Gateway Service on 1800 003 308 can help find shelter if you need assistance.
The ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾lessness gateway operates 24/7 every day of the year. Anyone experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness in encouraged to call the Gateway at any time.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink thanked the people working to help rough sleepers stay warm and safe.
“These are some of the most vulnerable people in our community, and I thank those working in the homelessness services who offer assistance for people to stay warm in this extreme winter weather,” said Minister Lensink.
