As we head into the colder months it’s more important than ever to support the shelters that keep homeless families safely off the streets. With these organizations you can work to not only provide temporary room and board for homeless individuals, but toward finding them permanent housing solutions.

12 Wise St., Boston
Jackson Square T stop, street parking available
617-942-8671
Mariann Bucina, executive director, mariannbucina@fobh.org

Friends of Boston’s Homeless is a solution-oriented shelter that works to secure permanent housing, employment, and stable health care for its residents. Since 2009, Friends has helped over 1,000 people move into safe, long-term housing. Ninety percent of those people are still housed today. Based on the strategy that secure housing improves quality of life in all areas, Friends of Boston assists with initial move-in costs like a security deposit and first month’s rent and provides essential furniture and household items.

Because of its emphasis on permanent housing, Friends of Boston’s Homeless encourages volunteers to collect or purchase essential items, like sponges and toilet paper, and to make welcome baskets with first-time home necessities. Volunteers looking for an in-person experience can serve a meal at Woods-Mullen Shelter, which is supported by Friends. Also at Woods, you can host a recreational activity like a bingo night or teach a class in one of your skill areas.

To get started, review the list of volunteer opportunities on the Friends of Boston’s Homeless website, then contact Executive Director Mariann Bucina for more information.

780 Albany St., Boston
Massachusetts Avenue, Ruggles, Andrew T stops, limited street parking available
857-654-1000
Allison Seitz, manager of volunteers & service programs, aseitz@bhchp.org

Since 1985, BHCHP has provided accessible health care to men, women and children struggling with homelessness in Boston. The program began with a staff of just eight and now supports a team of more than 400 people conducting clinics in 45 locations in greater Boston. BHCHP offers comprehensive medical, dental, and psychiatric services and also works with shelters around Boston to provide these services to their residents.

You don’t have to have medical experience to support BHCHP. Volunteers don’t participate in the clinical work, but they do provide services such as escorting patients from waiting rooms to exam rooms; planning and supporting activities for long-term patients, such as games, computer training, arts and crafts; preparing trays for meal service and serving meals; and assisting patients in filling out forms. BHCHP requests a once-a-week commitment over a six-month period.

Apply through the online application, then attend an in-person orientation upon acceptance. You must complete a criminal offender record information (CORI) check and submit immunization records before beginning to volunteer.