The Amherst Survival Center is a community center that offers resources to help people meet their basic needs. We currently provide free meals and free groceries. We continue to provide showers, laundry, and lockers for people experiencing homelessness. Our resource center can provide fuel assistance and Salvation Army vouchers, as well as advice about additional services that community members need. These services are provided with COVID protocols in mind, are made possible by a large team of volunteers, and are available to all. Thanks to our community, we can!
We look forward to a time when we can once again provide free clothing, free medical care, and free community activities. We look forward to allowing community members inside the building to use our public computers, phone, and limited copy/fax services. We can’t wait to provide this in a warm community center environment, with activities ranging from live music to sewing workshops to office hours with elected officials.
What to expect at the Amherst Survival Center
When you arrive you will be asked one simple question—”Where do you live?” We need this information to keep track of how many people come in a day from what area.
If you have a question, ask anyone! They may know the answer or be able to point you in the direction of a person who can help. Staff and volunteers outside are happy to help you find the information you need.
During your visit, you are welcome to access any of the resources provided. The food pantry can only be accessed once a month, but everything else (meals, fresh food distribution, resource center, showers, laundry, mail) can be accessed every day we are open.
PARKING
There is limited parking available in our lot. Please do not park on grass or in other restricted spaces. Extra parking is available on the street on Cowl’s road. Do NOT park at Cowl’s Lumber, Watroba’s, or ProSensing. These businesses are strong supporters of the Amherst Survival Center and need their parking for their customers.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is an opportunity for individuals who want to play a bigger part in the cycle of giving and receiving that defines the Amherst Survival Center. Engaging volunteers in our work is also part of our mission.
Look at this map to see our full list of pre-Covid services. We cannot wait to return to something like this once again once it’s safe enough to do so!
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