DreamTree Project Activates Code Blue Operations at NEST Shelter in Coordination with Town, County, & Healthcare Partners

Taos, NM — January 7, 2026 — In response to forecasted life-threatening cold temperatures, DreamTree Project has activated Code Blue operations at the NEST Shelter, expanding services to protect unhoused community members during extreme winter conditions.

Code Blue operations will begin Wednesday, January 7, at 5:00 PM and are anticipated to continue through Tuesday morning at 8:00 AM, subject to weather conditions and coordination updates. During this period, the NEST Shelter will expand operations to 24 hours per day, with a maximum overnight capacity of 40 individuals.

This activation is part of a coordinated, multi-agency response involving the Town of Taos, Taos County Sheriff’s Office, public safety partners, Taos Office of Emergency Management, and healthcare providers. The Town of Taos is currently considering a formal Code Blue declaration, which would provide flexibility to deploy municipal resources in support of life-safety efforts.

Healthcare System Capacity Considerations

Holy Cross Medical Center has expressed strong support for expanded shelter operations. Hospital leadership has noted that recent hospital census levels have been very high, and that an influx of individuals to the Emergency Department, particularly those seeking warmth or brought by law enforcement when no shelter options are available, could significantly strain hospital operations.

By expanding shelter access and coordinating transportation and outreach, Code Blue operations help reduce preventable emergency department utilization while prioritizing safety, dignity, and appropriate care.

Holy Cross Medical Center has also offered support from its Infection Prevention team to advise on shelter operations during expanded hours, particularly given rising COVID-19 and influenza activity in Taos County.

Street Outreach & Life-Saving Supplies

When shelter capacity is reached, or when individuals cannot be safely housed indoors, DreamTree Project’s Street Outreach Team will continue emergency response throughout the community.

Outreach teams distribute Code Blue food and survival bags, which include sleeping bags and essential supplies. Each bag costs approximately $7 and may be the only protection available for individuals who are banned from the shelter or present safety concerns that prevent on-site placement.

Community Support Urgently Needed

To maintain Code Blue response efforts, DreamTree Project urgently needs donations to help cover food for shelter guests, Code Blue survival kits for street outreach, and additional staffing required to safely operate extended shelter hours.

Volunteers Needed

DreamTree Project is also seeking volunteers to support NEST Shelter operations, working alongside staff during Code Blue hours to ensure safety, continuity of care, and humane conditions.

Why Code Blue Matters

Code Blue is a cold-weather emergency protocol designed to prevent injury and death from cold exposure. Beyond the immediate response, Code Blue strengthens coordination, communication, and preparedness across agencies, building capacity for future emergencies, including wildfire season and other all-hazards events.

How to Help

Donations and volunteer sign-ups are available below

Extreme cold is deadly. Coordinated response and community support save lives.

DreamTree Project
shannond@dreamtreeproject.org
575-224-2433