NO ONE LEFT IN THE COLD
Perth Amboy Expands Code Blue Efforts as Freezing Temperatures Continue

PERTH AMBOY, NJ (2/25/2025) – With temperatures continuing to drop to dangerous levels, Perth Amboy has activated Code Blue nearly 60 times this season, ensuring that residents facing extreme cold have access to a safe, warm place to go.
Each activation provides a lifeline for individuals experiencing an overnight emergency, including residents in relocation, individuals who are unsheltered, or those facing a sudden loss of heat. The Alexander F. Jankowski Community Center, Perth Amboy’s designated Warming Center, serves as a critical resource during these extreme weather conditions, providing overnight accommodations, meals, and essential support.
"When temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below, it can be a life-or-death situation for those without shelter," said Mayor Helmin Caba. "That’s why every Code Blue activation matters. It’s not just about providing warmth—it’s about protecting lives."
New Jersey’s Code Blue law, enacted in 2017, requires counties to activate warming centers when temperatures reach 32°F or below. Municipalities with 10 or more unsheltered individuals, as identified in the annual Point-In-Time (PIT) survey, must provide overnight emergency resources to protect at-risk residents.
In Perth Amboy, Code Blue is coordinated by the Office of Emergency Management, led by Police Chief Larry Cattano. The city follows a strict emergency protocol:

• When temperatures reach 32°F or below, a Code Blue alert is issued.
• Alerts are broadcast city-wide via NIXLE, social media, and public notifications.
• First responders and community partners identify residents in need and transport them to the Warming Center.

"The goal is simple: to make sure no one is left outside in freezing temperatures," said Chief Cattano. "Every time temperatures hit dangerous levels, we take immediate action to identify Perth Amboy residents in need and get them to safety."
Middlesex County continues to invest in expanding winter emergency response efforts, providing crucial funding to help municipalities like Perth Amboy address emergency preparedness and public safety, ensuring that residents remain protected during hazardous weather conditions.
“At Middlesex County, we are committed to ensuring that all of our residents, especially our most vulnerable, have access to critical resources during extreme weather conditions. The County’s investment in Code Blue efforts, including the funding provided to Perth Amboy, reflects our dedication to public safety and emergency preparedness,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “No one should have to endure freezing temperatures without shelter, and through partnerships with our municipalities, first responders, and community organizations, we are making sure that help is available when it is needed most.”
“Protecting the health and well-being of our residents is a priority for Middlesex County, and Code Blue activations are a vital part of that mission. This funding will ensure that Perth Amboy has the necessary resources to provide safe, warm shelter, meals, and essential support to those in need during dangerously cold nights,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Claribel Azcona-Barber, chair of the County’s Community Services Committee.
As part of this initiative, Perth Amboy has been awarded a $172,480.00 grant from Middlesex County, a combination of county and state funds, to help cover staffing, supplies, and operations for the Code Blue program. 
This funding, contingent upon total expenses submitted, helps support:

• Operations by third-party service provider Raritan Bay Area YMCA
• Meals purchased from Perth Amboy restaurants
• Laundry services for blankets and linens
• Essential incidentals for guests

Additionally, thanks to generous donations from local organizations and houses of worship, the city has been able to provide coats, winter wear, and even new shoes to guests seeking relief from the cold.
"Every winter, we see a growing number of residents in need of our services," said Steve Jobin, President & CEO of the Raritan Bay Area YMCA. "This grant allows us to continue offering a warm, safe space while ensuring every guest is treated with dignity and care. In partnership with the City of Perth Amboy and Middlesex County, the Y remains committed not only to keeping residents warm but also to restoring hope for those who need it most."
With freezing temperatures expected to continue into February, city officials encourage residents to stay informed and spread awareness about Code Blue services.  For more information on Perth Amboy’s Code Blue program, including how to seek assistance, support the initiative, or donate new winter clothing and supplies, please contact the Office of Housing and Social Services at (732) 826-1690, Ext. 4321.
Those seeking warming centers outside of Perth Amboy or in other parts of the state can call 2-1-1, where the closest available warming center will be listed based on the caller’s location.
If you see someone in distress due to the cold, please call the Perth Amboy Police Department’s Office of Emergency Management at (732) 442-4400.
"The strength of a community is measured by how we care for those in need," said Mayor Caba. "Perth Amboy is committed to ensuring that no one is left out in the cold. Whether it’s through Code Blue activations, donations, or simply looking out for one another, every effort makes a difference in saving lives."


Media Contact:
Lisett Lebron, Chief of Staff
Office of the Mayor, City of Perth Amboy
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (732) 826-0290 ext. 4005