Code Blue Alert In Red Bank As Cold Weather Descends

RED BANK, NJ — Because of cold temperatures, a Code Blue alert is in effect here through Thursday morning, the borough says, with meals available at specific sites on specific days and a Warming Center for Men to find shelter through the night.

Those seeking assistance should check in for meals on Monday at First Baptist Church at 84 Maple Ave. at 5 p.m.; on Tuesday at Pilgrim Baptist Church Annex at 166 Shrewsbury at 5 p.m. and on Wednesday at JBJ Soul Kitchen at 207 Monmouth St. at 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., according to the borough's alert.

Adjacent to Pilgrim Baptist Church at the annex is a Warming Center for Men where guests can come after they have received meals, said volunteer supervisor Teena Lomack.

She said there are 18 beds for men and services to help with laundry, showers and sleeping areas.

Lomack said about a third of the men using the Warming Center services are working, but housing is so expensive the men can not afford a permanent place to live. They also need to live near their jobs since they do not have cars. She added that Pastor Terrence K. Porter is the pastor for Pilgrim Baptist Church next door to the annex. She advises that guests come to the back entrance of the annex to be admitted.

Lomack, a retired state nurse, said Red Bank provides "a circle of care" for people experiencing homelessness that is unique in the county. There is the Lunch Break social services and meal provider on East Bergen Place; the Parker Family Health Center on Shrewsbury Avenue, the churches and the Soul Kitchen. A Jon Bon Jovi foundation also secures donations of clothing and other necessities donated from the public, she said.

The Warming Center phone number is 732-741-5617. There is a hotline at 848-260-9076.

Lomack said the volunteers follow Bible teaching, adding "it's our job" to take care of the guests in need.