First Church Shelter

About First Church Shelter: Since 1987, First Church Shelter has provided a basic act of mercy to the poor and homeless of Cambridge and surrounding communities. Each evening 14 men are provided with a safe, comfortable place to stay. Our guests have access to two meals, showers and storage facilites for their belongings.

First Church Shelter also offers guests assistance with identifying and securing the resources they need to move out of homeslessness and into transitional or permanent housing. Much of that assistance comes in the form of referrals to other agencies and service providers, but shelter staff are available to help guests negotiate the frequently difficult and intimidating process of applying for public benefits or subsidized housing.

On March 3, 2001, First Church initiated its first Capital Improvement Campaign to help raise funds necessary for a major renovation of the space currently used to house the shelter. On February 10, 2002, the renovations were officially complete and a shelter rededication ceremony was held at the church. Please go to the 'Shelter Renovation' section to see pictures of the new space.

In every sense, First Church Shelter is prophetic. Its practice realizes the central biblical mandate to serve the poor. Its teaching calls every class of people to conscience. Its advocacy points the community and nation toward a more just future. It feeds us all.

-Joel Martin, Professor History and Religious Studies, University of California, Riverside