Craig’s Doors To Open New 24-Hour Shelter In Amherst

Source: amherstma.gov

With winter approaching, Craig’s Doors has announced a November 1 opening of a new 24-hour shelter at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst (UUSA) for those experiencing homelessness. 

“Our most vulnerable community members deserve safe indoor space for the winter,” said Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman. “We thank Craig’s Doors and the Unitarian Universalist community for working together to make this space available.” 

Craig’s Doors has worked to keep residents of its former shelter space safe since the onset of COVID-19. Securing a new space was a high priority to meet the new needs presented by the pandemic.   

Town staff, including representatives from the Public Health, Fire, Emergency Management, and Police Departments, are assisting with the planning of the shelter, securing resources, and working with Craig’s Doors on operational details. Health and safety protocols to minimize the risk of COVID transmission will be in place.

The shelter will be staffed 24/7 by Craig’s Doors staff, which plans to accommodate up to 16 guests and will provide on-site meals. Guests will also have access to medical care, counseling, job and housing assistance, laundry services, and case management through the Craig’s Doors administrative site on the grounds of the First Baptist Church. 

Kevin J. Noonan, Executive Director of Craig’s Doors, noted, “It is a warm, accommodating space, already the home of Wednesday breakfasts, which are jointly provided in partnership with the UUSA, and which will continue. Our guests are familiar with the location and it’s known as a place of welcome.”  

Those interested in volunteering or donating Welcome Kits including bus passes, socks, hats, water bottles, energy bars, and notes of welcome or other financial assistance towards food and other supplies should contact Kevin Noonan at Kevin@craigsdoors.org.