The unusually warm December has been a big help to those who help others escape the cold. The Buffalo City Mission has issued just one Code Blue since November, down from nearly 10 by this time last year.
A Code Blue is issued when temperatures or wind chills reach 15 degrees or lower in the city. Organizers at the City Mission say 35 people were served when that Code Blue was issued 10 days ago. They say warmer temperatures give them more time to prepare.
"When we do start calling the Code Blue nights, we're prepared with our team efforts through outreach and internally and also the ways that we can meet their practical needs," said Aubrey Calhoun, Buffalo City Mission associate executive director.
Even with the warmth, the City Mission has seen an increase in nights of stay, meals and need for clothing.