The city’s Emergency Warming Center has reported a marked increase in utilization over recent months.

By Jeffrey Shwom

The City of Somerville indicates an increase in utilization of the Emergency Warming Center (42 Prescott St, The Cummings Building) for adults experiencing homelessness this season. The third winter that the city has offered this cold weather help, it provides hot and cold meals, water, bathrooms, beds, and space to sleep.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne expressed, “our Emergency Warming Center is a lifeline for some of our most vulnerable neighbors, providing a safe and warm space during the harsh winter months. Our unhoused neighbors deserve dignity and protection from the elements, and this center reflects our commitment to supporting those in need and building a more compassionate community.”

According to information gathered from Connor McCombs, Health Communications Officer in the Department of Health and Human Services, “since opening on December 9, 2024, the Emergency Warming Center has provided crucial overnight shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness in Somerville. Based on data provided by the site operator, Housing Families, nightly attendance has fluctuated between 28 and 37 individuals, with the highest attendance of 37 on a single night.” Moreover, the city found that since December 9, the Emergency Warming Center has seen higher attendance than the same period last year.

Usage was a bit slow to start during the first week, McCombs told us. “Attendance was lower during the first five nights as awareness of the center grew and trust was established, but numbers have since stabilized.” Furthermore, “the operator is currently working to establish a van shuttle service from Davis Square to the Emergency Warming Center. In the interim, the city is exploring the option of providing taxi vouchers. Anyone who needs a ride to the warming center can call (781) 658-4507.”

When asked why the space is only available to folks experiencing homelessness, McCombs stated, “Homelessness has been on the rise nationally and locally. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, homelessness increased by 18% in 2024 across the United States, and Somerville has experienced similar trends.

Emergency warming centers are designed to provide a safe, warm space for individuals without housing, addressing their unique needs with the support of trained human services professionals. Maintaining trusted relationships with this population is critical for their quality of life and access to services.”

In the Winter of 2022 into 2023, Mayor Ballantyne first launched the initiative, operating on an emergency basis at the Armory for around four nights. During the second season, the warming center operated for a fuller season at the Somerville Armory on the second floor. This winter, the Center has opened with expanded dates and operations to meet increasing demand.

Families or individuals with children seeking shelter should contact the Somerville Office of Housing Stability at 617-625-6600, Ext. 2581, for referrals to family-specific resources and shelters.

Community members interested in learning more about the Somerville Overnight Warming Center, visit somervillema.gov/warmingcenter or email warmingcenter@somervillema.gov.