ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) – The Tompkins County Department of Social Services, along with St. John's Community Services say they are still working to accommodate the needs of homeless people in the community while also practicing the precautionary measures needed to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

Officials say those who typically stay at the homeless shelter are currently being house in an alternate location. Meanwhile, the Cold Blue population – those who are helped when it is 32 degrees or colder – are being assisted at the homeless shelter while “ensuring good social distancing practices are implemented”. If the number of people exceeds the number the shelter can accommodate, officials say they will also be housed in alternate locations. 

Meanwhile, The Friendship Center is limiting services, but still providing boxed meals those those in need, and they will accommodate people who do not have alternate options for warmth and other needs. 

Additionally, outreach staff are visiting the homeless and providing information and education on COVID-19, as well as continuing to offer options for sheltering and other services. DSS officials say that outreach will continue and resources will be “encouraged and provided”. 

Tompkins County DSS will also continue to serve the community over phone. If individuals are homeless or experiencing a housing crisis, they can call 607- 274-5644 for housing services or 607-274-5345 for cash assistance.  If someone does not have access to a phone, they can come to the DSS office (320 West Martin Luther King Jr Street) where they will be met at the door and screened.  Once they are cleared to enter, they will be able to call their worker from the lobby phone and will be assisted.

Community members who would like to help during this time by volunteering can contact 607-274-5022.