In anticipation of the upcoming freezing temperatures, Mayor Joshua A. Garcia is announcing an agreement between the City of Holyoke and Providence Ministries to offer a pop-up warming shelter. The shelter is located at 51 Hamilton Street in Holyoke and will be open for any residents in-need from 5:00pm on Saturday, February 5th, to 9:00am on Sunday, February 6th.
Last month, after extensive community outreach efforts, the City’s Emergency Management Department started a pop-up warming shelter pilot program, in collaboration with One Holyoke CDC, the Holyoke Fire Department, the Holyoke Police Department, the Holyoke Office of Community Development, and the Holyoke Board of Health. The first two pop-up shelters were located at the Mt. Tom Masonic Lodge and served 27 unhoused individuals.
“I’m proud that our Holyoke team and community partners were able to build upon the success of the pilot program that started last month at the Masonic Lodge. Through that effort we learned a lot about our unhoused neighbors and were able to keep them safe from dangerously low temperatures. Some of those who came to the shelter were also able to take advantage of services that will put them on the road to safe and secure housing in the future,” said Mayor Garcia. “As we continue to explore long-term options, I am grateful that Providence Ministries is able to partner with us for this weekend’s shelter.”
Through this partnership, Providence Ministries will provide a warm space, food, and bedding. The shelter will be staffed by shifts of trained professionals with experience in both addiction and homeless services. The City of Holyoke will be covering the expenses for all supplies and staffing.
“Since being founded over 40 years ago, the mission of Providence Ministries has been to assist those most in need in the community by providing life’s basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter. When Mayor Garcia reached out to explore the possibility of us hosting a pop-up, we were happy to assist,” Said Jennie Adamczyk, Executive Director of Providence Ministries. “All of us here are ready to welcome our neighbors with open arms and a warm meal.”
The shelter’s rules are as follows:
1. Masks and social distancing will be required unless eating or drinking. Masks will be available on-site.
2. Alcohol or drug use in the shelter is prohibited.
3. Shelter occupants are exempt from all areas of the building other than the designated shelter space.
If you have any questions, please contact Providence Ministries at 413-536-9109.