New Bedford Agencies Urged to Open Their Doors for the Homeless

Homelessness continues to be a persisting issue in New Bedford and the Homeless Services Provider Network, part of the Bristol County Continuum of Care, is working toward solutions, both long and short term.

Carl Alves chairs the BCCC and stopped by Townsquare Sunday to share some information about a new program.

"Homelessness is changing, and sadly it appears to be going in the wrong direction," Alves said. "Over the last few years, there has been a 35 percent increase in the number of first-time homeless, for the most part due to the rising cost of housing."

Alves said there is a wide variety of folks who make up the homeless population in New Bedford, from senior citizens (some with medical conditions) priced out of their apartments, families who can no longer afford their rents, individuals who have recently been released from jail and don't have a place to go, or individuals who are simply down on their luck.

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Alves and others have started a new program for the winter months to get the homeless off the streets, at least for a few hours a week. It's called the "Community Gathering Center," and he's hoping for other agencies to join in.

"The Gathering Center is an opportunity for the community to come together, provide some food and clothing for people who need it, resource information, along with warmth and fellowship," he said.

The Gathering Centers are currently located on Monday and Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rise Recovery Center at 497 Belleville Avenue, and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at PAACA, located at 360 Coggeshall Street.

Alves is also looking to expand the Community Gathering Center program. He's urging other agencies, churches and organizations to open their doors at least one afternoon a week. He said the Continuum of Care will provide the supplies and resources.

"It's the donations from community folks that have helped to make this happen, and we want more," Alves said. "If you want to give to give something, come and join us. If you need something, come by and we'll do our best to help you."

If you would like to learn more about the Community Gathering Centers or get involved, call (508) 997-9051.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.