HOLYOKE — In response to the impending winter snowstorm and low temperatures, the City of Holyoke announces the opening of an emergency shelter dedicated to providing refuge for the unhoused population.
The location is 51 Hamilton Street. Access is through Kate’s Kitchen door in the back parking lot. The shelter will open at 5 p.m. Sunday and close at 7 a.m. Thursday. Individuals must leave each morning by 8 a.m.
The shelter is handicapped accessible. Due to capacity limitations, the shelter is for Holyoke residents only.
“This emergency shelter aims to ensure the safety and well-being of those without homes during severe weather conditions,” said Jeff Trask, Holyoke’s Emergency Management Director. “The designated location at 51 Hamilton Street will provide a secure space for individuals seeking shelter from the storm. The shelter will open its doors promptly at 5 p.m. each day, offering warmth and safety throughout the night until 7 a.m. It is imperative that all occupants exit the premises by 8 a.m. each day to allow for necessary preparations and ensure a smooth transition.”
Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia said, “This initiative underscores the City of Holyoke’s commitment to the welfare of its residents, particularly during challenging weather events. Collaboration with Providence Ministries/Kate’s Kitchen reinforces community support in times of need.”
Donations of food and clothing will be accepted.
Other shelter services in Holyoke include the Center for Human Development (CHD), with individual accommodations at 1515 Northampton Road (former Motel 6), contact: 413-302-5398, capacity: 45 beds; CHD Warming Center, 696 Dwight Street, Monday-Friday, 8 am – 4 pm. Drop-in to warm-up, eat, charge phones, receive hygienic and emergency supplies and connect with case management; and CHD emergency weather hotel stays: Limited hotel rooms for unsheltered individuals during severe weather. Contact the CHD triage line: 413-867-0398.
For additional information or inquiries, contact the Holyoke Mayor’s Office, 413-561-1600, or Emergency Management Department at the Holyoke Fire Department, 413-534-2251.