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 The Daybreak Shelter is dedicated to the care of indigent, homeless adults including those individuals suffering from the diseases of alcoholism and/or drug addiction:  We admit those over the age of eighteen who are in crises situations due to problems associated with alcoholism and drug dependency, our guests are often dually diagnosed or have a primary mental health diagnosis. The program is a 30 bed emergency, transitional "wet shelter" operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Though funded for 30 beds, we accept up to fifty guests regularly. Our primary purpose is to meet the needs of this population which includes temporary shelter, food, hygiene, clothing, medical services, sober social relationships, housing and employment referrals,  and intervention through substance abuse treatment, education and referrals to detoxification, rehabilitative centers, respite beds and referrals to Department of Mental Health services.

            Daybreak Shelter began operation in 1984 as the area's Public Inebriate Program funded by both the Department of Public Health and the Department of Transitional Assistance. Daybreak is tightly woven into the fabric of the community and well distinguished as an invaluable resource by state and governmental agencies, social service organizations, hospitals, law enforcement and the community. The program is also recognized as a statewide resource for homeless individuals with disabilities having full structural access, assistance equipment and programmatic supports that create a safe barrier free environment.

               Admission occurs at 5 pm every evening, and is based on a first come, first served basis.  Admission requires a photo ID.  Next, guests are given linens, towels, and a bunk where they will sleep for the night.  Showers are available, and dinner is served at 6:30.  Lights in the dorms are turned out a 8 pm, and come on automatically the next morning at 6:15.  Guests are provided with coffee and a morning meal, and exit the shelter by 8 am. 

            We have continued to accept any individual who appears at our doors in the coldest weather.  We supplement our food budget with a local food bank membership and through community donations.  Long time friends of Daybreak have donated mattresses and bunks so that only during the very coldest nights, all of our guests will be in bunks, save 5 men who would need to sleep on a mattress on the floor.  Some of the services provided include meals, the availability of hygiene supplies, clothing, medical services (including access to HIV/AIDS/hepatitis testing and counseling), and a needle disposal kiosk onsite. Daybreak operates a weekly free medical clinic within the program run by  Greater Lawrence Family Health Center with the assistance of shelter staff, interns, nurses and med students.  The shelter staff provides transportation to detoxes for our guests, and for other organizations, when possible. The staff works closely with the law enforcement officials, probation and parole officers, elder services and family shelters to ensure that everyone receives the services he/she needs.     

 

For more information, please click here to email Susan McGibbon.