Our sincere thanks to area houses of worship for standing in solidarity with people in our community who are homeless.
Immanuel Lutheran Church initially agreed to host Craig’s Place, our seasonal, congregate shelter for 23 guests, each night from November through April. In December, the congregation graciously voted to expand the hours of operation to 24-hours per day, everyday.
This afforded an opportunity to replace lightweight cots, which were uncomfortable, with more durable beds that are much more accommodating. Simultaneously it afforded guests with a secure place to leave their belongings during the day since they were no longer forced to conspicuously carry them on their backs.
It is nearly impossible to express the gratitude our guests feel about these two dignified and life supporting decisions.
In February, we reopened a shelter formerly hosted at the Unitarian Universalist Association of Amherst (UUSA) in their Meetinghouse. This shelter, known as Willie Eaton House, was named in honor of a longtime member of the UUSA. It can accommodate 14 women.
The women at Willie Eaton House really appreciate the safe space and recently began using the dormitory area for yoga during the day when the beds can be moved out of the way. And we so appreciate the community meals served each Wednesday by members of the UUSA congregation.
Our thanks also to First Baptist Church for continuing to host our Resource Center and administrative offices, which just this week opened a newly renovated ADA compliant shower. The shower was thoughtfully made possible thanks to funds provided by the town of Amherst.
We also are grateful for meals served by the Center for Human Development at “Not Bread Alone” in First Congregational Church.
Special thanks as well to the Amherst Survival Center for weekday lunches, laundry facilities, a Warming Center and access to showers while the one at our Resource Center was under construction.
This year we have received no reports of frostbites or deaths from hypothermia in our community. We know the solidarity of the faith communities and others which have contributed generously with financial contributions, space and services have helped to save lives.
In Solidarity,
Kevin J. Noonan
Executive Director, Craig’s Place
