Rise Up and Be Part of the Solution to End Homelessness in Our Community

Rise Up for Homes is a collaborative campaign of the Bristol County Continuum of Care (BCCC) dedicated to raising awareness and funds for individuals and families experiencing or on the verge of homelessness in the community. Your donation helps us meet the most pressing needs of our unsheltered and most vulnerable neighbors in Greater New Bedford.

Cold Weather Overflow Shelter - Winter 2024-2025

A member of the BCCC, Catholic Charities of the Fall River Diocese (CCFR) provides emergency shelter through a Cold Weather Overflow Shelter Project.  The Cold Weather Overflow provides a warm place for those who are unhoused and living outside to rest. A total of 15 units providing 30 beds within a local motel provides critically needed facilities when the local shelters are full in the winter months.   

The Cold Weather Overflow Shelter will be in operation during cold weather months (November 15, 2024 to March 30, 2025) when temperatures are at, or below, 28 degrees and/or severe weather conditions such as a blizzard. Also, precipitation or snow alone doesn’t ensure that the overflow will open; other factors are taken into consideration coupled with the temperatures such as “feel like” temps.  As an example, if the temperature was expected to be at 32 degrees but the wind-chill coupled with rain or snow presents or “feels like” 25 degrees, then the overflow would be activated. It is anticipated that the overflow shelter will be in operation for approximately 50+ nights during the given timeframe. All individuals staying in the Cold Weather Shelter are given a meal and able to stay warm all night.

Still have questions about how the Cold Weather Overflow Shelter operates? Read more here.

You can help. Make a donation to help us keep the Cold Weather Overflow Shelter open this Winter.

We Want to Hear From You

Homelessness can happen to anyone, anytime. Young or old, individuals and families. It’s a multifaceted issue that requires the entire community’s voice and active involvement toward building solutions.

Rise Up for Homes and the Bristol County Continuum of Care (BCCC), wants your feedback in addressing the complexities of homelessness. We welcome your thoughts and opinions and invite your feedback here. Visit https://www.bristolcountycoc.com to learn more about the “Continuum Of Care” through the BCCC.