Keene’s overnight warming shelter will open Dec. 7 at the United Church of Christ on Central Square, providing a seasonal place to sleep for people who are unhoused during the colder months. The city is contributing $50,000 to the program.
The shelter is expected to operate through April 5, depending on available funding. Keene is operating the program with Hundred Nights and community partners, including St. James Episcopal Church, which will serve as a backup location when needed.
“By starting earlier and working together, we hope to provide greater stability and predictability for those who need shelter during the winter months,” City Manager Elizabeth Ferland said.
A second year in its current form
This will be the second year for the warming shelter program in its current arrangement. Last winter, the overnight operation ran from January through March. The earlier opening this season will make the shelter available beginning in the first full week of December.
Hundred Nights also operates a permanent 48-bed shelter on Water Street. The organization previously hosted the seasonal warming shelter in its resource room, but the current program uses the United Church of Christ as its primary location.
The seasonal site is intended to provide overnight lodging for people who may not have another place to stay. Hundred Nights Executive Director Becky Beaton said the shelter offers visitors a place to settle during the night after they may have spent much of the day without a stable location.
- Opening date: Dec. 7
- Primary location: United Church of Christ, Central Square
- Planned closing date: April 5, subject to funding
- City contribution: $50,000
Hundred Nights will handle contacts for people seeking a place at the shelter. The organization can be reached at 603-352-5197. Volunteer training sessions are scheduled for Nov. 9 and Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the United Church of Christ.
