State Awards $9.9 Million to Expand Homelessness Winter Capacity

BOSTON — In anticipation of increased wintertime shelter needs for individuals experiencing homelessness, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) has awarded $9.9 million in supplemental grants for shelter providers, municipalities, and community-based organizations to open or expand seasonal shelter bed capacity.

Through the EOHLC Division of Housing Stabilization’s One Time Grants to Expand Capacity, Clinical & Support Options has been awarded $1,053,449 to add an additional 22 beds and capacity to serve 100 people in warming centers in Springfield, Greenfield, and Northampton.

“Our nonprofit community partners provide a lifeline to individuals who are struggling with the very basic need of a safe place to lay their head at night,” Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus said. “In addition, these organizations are well-equipped to connect individuals with other important services ranging from behavioral health to the search for permanent housing, which helps lift people out of homelessness.”

Annually, EOHLC supports 2,514 year-round beds and 363 winter beds for individuals experiencing homelessness. The funding will support 595 additional winter beds and will expand daytime warming centers to prevent unsheltered homelessness during the cold winter months. Shelters are run by nonprofit organizations that receive funding from the state.

“This funding comes at a critical time when residents experiencing homelessness in the Hampden district and across the Pioneer Valley will face harsh weather conditions,” state Sen. Adam Gomez said. “I’m thankful to Secretary Augustus and the Healey-Driscoll administration for ensuring our most vulnerable men, women, and children have access to robust wrap-around services intended to establish stability in their lives.”