Emergency Overnight Warming Center

Location/Dates:
The Cummings Building (42 Prescott St, Somerville, MA)
Operating Dates: 12/8/2025 to 4/12/2026
Operating Hours: 5 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.  daily

Are you struggling with winter heating costs? The Somerville Winter Heating Fuel Assistance Program may be able to help. 
 

About the Winter Warming Center

What is the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

A warming center is a temporary night center for those experiencing homelessness. The extreme cold weather and snow we often experience are extremely dangerous and can be deadly for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. This center is a commitment from the city to provide a safe place to sleep during the coldest months of the year.

Where is the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

The Cummings School - 42 Prescott Street, Somerville, MA 02143

When is the Emergency Overnight Warming Center open? 

The Winter Warming Center is open daily, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. December 8th through April 12th.

Using the Winter Warming Center

Who can use the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

Adults experiencing homelessness.

Can families use the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

No; the Winter Warming Center is an adults-only shelter. 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.

How can I get to the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

• The Center can provide assistance with transportation to the center. The phone number will be posted here.
• Public transit
  • 4 min walk from Highland Ave @ School St Bus Stop – 88 and 90 buses
  • 7 min walk from Gilman Square Station – Green Line

What services are offered at the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

• A safe, warm area to rest overnight
• Meals, snacks, and drinks
• Case management services including housing search, MassHealth application assistance, and resource navigation

Is theEmergency Overnight Warming Center ADA accessible?

Yes.

Are pets allowed at the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

Yes, cats and dogs are allowed and must be leashed or crated at all times.

Getting involved

How can I donate to the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

• The Warming Center operator, Housing Families, accepts donations at their main office, located at 919 Eastern Ave, Malden, MA. For information about what items are currently being accepted, please visit the Housing Families website at housingfamilies.org/donate or email enolan@housingfamilies.org with any questions.
• You can also donate items to the Somerville Homeless Coalition by visiting their website at somervillehomelesscoalition.org/giving

Can I volunteer at the Emergency Overnight Warming Center?

Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the City of Somerville Winter Warming Center. For information on volunteering, please visit https://housingfamilies.org/who-we-are/get-involved/, as volunteer opportunities are organized by the operator of the warming center.

For any Emergency Overnight Warming Center-related questions or concerns, please call 311. You can also consult the City’s “Together in Public Spaces: Safety, Respect, and Support” webpage.

• Somerville Warming Center Executive Summary - June 13, 2024