Question 1

COVID-19 INFO, HOW TO PROTECT OURSELVES & EACHOTHER, AND SYMPTOMS"

Accepted Answer

COVID-19: BASIC INFORMATION
 • COVID-19, an illness caused by a newly identified type of coronavirus, can cause a respiratory infection and lead to health problems. It’s usually mild and most people recover quickly if they have it, but it can be very serious for people who are at increased risk or older adults.
    • People who are considered at increased risk include those with underlying health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease such as asthma/COPD, diabetes, or HIV, or people who are immunocompromised, or over age 60.
 • COVID-19 is highly contageous. It is spread from person-to-person by coughing or sneezing and getting exposed to droplets that have the virus in them.
    • There are no known risk factors that appear to make a person more or less vulnerable to getting infected with the virus.
    • The main risk is close contact with someone who has it.
    • Symptoms appear 2-14 days after exposure
 
COVID-19: WAYS WE CAN PROTECT OURSELVES AND EACHOTHER
 • A person can be asymptomatic, showing no symptoms at all, but still carry and spread COVID. For this reason, it's important that we follow the precautions below to the best of our ability if they are within our means so we can protect and take care of ourselves and eachother.
    • Wear a face covering when interacting with others
    • Maintain 6 feet of disance from others
    • Wash your hands with soap & water for at least 20 seconds as regularly as you are able, especially after using the restroom, after handling money, after touching anything "high touch" (handrails, trash handles, door knobs), or after making a purchase.
       • If you do not have access to soap & water, scrub your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (made with at least 60% alcohol) can also kill the virus.
          • We're happy to provide you with hand sanitizer at MAAP!
    • Avoid sharing cigarettes, pipes, drinks, or supplies. If you have to share wipe things down with an alcohol wipe. 
    • Avoid touching your face (especially you eyes, nose and mouth) with unwashed or unsanitized hands.
    • Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue and throw it away in a trash can. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into the bend in your elbow.
    • If you are a person who uses drugs the Harm Reduction Coalition has developed a Safer Drug Use During COVID-19 Guide.(https://harmreduction.org/blog/covid-19-guidance-for-people-who-use-drugs-and-harm-reduction-programs/)  
    • If you are a person who uses stimulants the Harm Reduction Coalition has developed a Safer Stimulant Use During COVID-19 Guide.(https://nhchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/COVID19StimulantUseHarmReduction-1.pdf)
    • If you are a person who engages in sex work The Butterfly Asian and Migrant Sex Worker's Support Network has created a Sex Work & COVID Guide.(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ymJ5motdh0zh453-wFs1p4syL3koC2dD/view)
 
COVID-19: SYMPTOMS
 • Please be mindful that people can be infected with COVID-19 and show no symptoms. And if symptoms do appear, it will not be until 2-14 days after exposure and they can sometimes present similar to a cold or flu, but can become much more severe and dangerous quickly. 
 • Mild symptoms include: 
    • Fever
    • Dry Cough
    • Difficulty Breathing / Shortness of Breath
    • Fatigue

Question 2

COVID-19: SYMPTOMS, WHAT TO DO IF YOU FEEL SICK & TESTING INFO"

Accepted Answer

COVID-19: WHAT TO DO IF YOU FEEL SICK & TESTING INFORMATION
 • If you aren't feeling well and concerned you may have COVID-19 and have a primary care provider you should reach out to them by phone to assess your symptoms and guidance.
 • If you aren't feeling well and concerned you may have COVID-19 you can access medical guidance online or over the phone for free.
    • Buoy Health (https://www.buoyhealth.com/symptom-checker/?configuration=ma_covid&concern=coronavirus)will assess your risk factors and symptoms, figure out if you need to be tested, and connect you with an appropriate healthcare resource.
    • You can call 2-1-1 for information and referrals to testing.
 • The State of MA has also setup a COVID-19 Test Site Locator.(https://www.mass.gov/covid-19-testing)
    • To find a testing location, you will need to:
       • Provide your current location
       • Check whether you are looking for a location that accepts MassHealth or provides free testing
 • If you are a patient of Fenway Health and would like to schedule a test there, call the medical appointment line at (617)927-6000 or make an appointment using their online scheduling system.(https://fenwayhealth.org/info/services/scheduling-appointments/)
    • Testing is available Monday–Friday, 8 AM–9:50 AM, by appointment.
    • Patients can access testing regardless of whether or not the have symptoms. 
    • Even though pre-testing telehealth screening is no longer required, patients may still request one if they would like.
    • Testing is free, but Fenway will collect for everyone who is insured at the time of their registration. 
 • Beginning Thursday July 1 2021, the City of Cambridge (https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19/testing)will offer free PCR COVID-19 testing 4 days per week. 
    • Days, Locations & Times:
       • Sundays 2-6PM 50 Church Street, Harvard Square 
       • Mondays 4-8PM CambridgeSide Galleria Mall. Testing is located on the 2nd Floor above the Food Court. 
       • Wednesdays 2-6PM 2254 Massachusetts Ave, St. John the Evangelist Church in North Cambridge
       • Thursdays 11AM-3PM CambridgeSide Galleria Mall. Testing is located on the 2nd Floor above the Food Court. 
    • No appointment needed
    • Free for all, regardless of insurance or immigration status
    • No identification or Social Security Number is required.
    • Site is wheelchair accessible
 • The City of Boston website lists several free testing sites for Boston residents a(https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-health-commission/covid-19-testing-sites#mobile-testing-sites)t community health centers and pop-ups throughout the city.
    • Some sites require you to call ahead for a pre-screening and make an appointment, see website for details.

Question 3

COVID-19: VACCINE INFORMATION

Accepted Answer

COVID-19 Vaccine: BASIC INFORMATION
 • The COVID-19 vaccine helps us fight the virus that causes the COVID-19 illness. Vaccines work by helping the body learn how to recognize viruses and build protection against the illness that they cause.
 • As of March 2021, three vaccines are approved for Emergency Use Authorization
    • Pfizer and Moderna
       • These vaccines require people who receive the vaccine to get two shots. The first shot starts building protection and the second shot, given a few weeks later, helps create the most protection the vaccine can offer.
    • Johnson & Johnson
       • This vaccine is administered in a single dose, or one shot. 
 • SAFETY
    • We understand you may be experiencing feelings of apprehension or anxiety about getting any of these vaccines. These feelings are valid and understandable. 
    • The CDC has determined the vaccines are safe and effective. The safety of COVID-19 vaccines is a top priority. COVID-19 vaccines are being held to the same safety standards as all other approved vaccines. All COVID-19 vaccines being administered were tested in clinical trials involving tens of thousands of people to make sure they meet safety standards and protect adults of different ages, races, and ethnicities. No serious safety concerns were identified. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) monitor all vaccines to look for safety issues after they are authorized and in use. 
 • BENEFITS
    • Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine is an important step to prevent you from getting sick with the COVID-19 virus. The vaccine will help your body fight the COVID-19 virus and ease your symptoms if you do become sick. Vaccines are also a tool for reducing infections and protecting your friends, family, and our community who may be at risk of illness.
 • SIDE EFFECTS 
    • The most common side effect is pain at the injection site, and some individuals experience symptoms like fever and chills. These side effects tend to be mild to moderate and go away quickly. These side effects are signs that the immune system is doing exactly what it is supposed to do: building up protection against the disease. Serious side effects after vaccination are very rare.
    • MAAP staff, volunteers and unhoused organizers, including those with compromised immunity, had little to no-reaction from the first shot and experienced side-effects for 12-48 hours after receiving the second dose (all received Moderna). 
       • Staff, volunteers, and unhoused organizers are more than willing to share their experiences with you if that feels helpful. 
 • MORE INFORMATION
    • Our siblings at Families for Justice as Healing, Deeper Than Water, and Black & Pink MA have developed a helpful FAQ about the COVID-19 vaccine (https://safetyandjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/FAQs-on-vaccines-National4.pdf)for people who are currently incarcerated, but much of the information is useful for anyone. 
 
COVID-19 VACCINE: AVAILABILITY
 • There are currently no COVID-19 vaccine clinics for unhoused community members in Boston or Cambridge (outside of shelter-specific clinics) that we're aware of. 
 • You can find available appointments using the State of MA vaccine finder website.(https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/) 
    • You can search using your location, and filter resultes by which type of vaccine you would like (Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson), and what type of setting you would like to receive your vaccine (clinic, pharmacy, local board of health etc). 
    • The COVID-19 Vaccine is free. You don’t need an ID or insurance to get the vaccine.
    • We are more than happy to help you schedule a vaccine appointment at MAAP!

Question 4

MATERIAL AID & ADVOCACY PROGRAM (MAAP)

Accepted Answer

• MAAP is open in the yard outside our spot, 5 Longfellow Park Cambridge, MA 02138 at the Friends Meeting at Cambridge (the Quaker Meeting House)
 • Tuesday & Thursday 9AM-3PM
 • How we can support you:
    • Meals, Snacks & Cold Drinks, Coffee/Hot Chocolate/Tea
       • You're welcome to eat physically distanced on our lawn and take extra to-go. 
    • Hand Washing Station
    • Basic Material Aid:
       • Clothing, Cold Weather Gear, Boots & Sneakers, Backpacks etc. 
       • Survival Supplies: Tents, Sleeping Bags, Tarps, Flashlights, Mylar Blankets, Thermal Sleep Mats
       • First Aid, Hygiene & Menstrual Hygiene Kits; Masks & Hand Sanitizer
    • Phone & Laptop Access
    • Phone, Portable Charger & Bracelet Charging
    • Support with Stimulus & Pandemic Unemployment Applications
    • Advocacy & Organizing Opportunities
       • Our unhoused organizers host a weekly organizing meeting on Tuesdays from 3-5pm. We are organizing around priorities raised by unhoused organizers & unhoused community members. You can view all meeting notes, agendas, and resources in our organizing binders during MAAP hours. 
       • You can also learn about current advocacy & organizing opportunities on our daily updates board. 
 • Need to reach us or need supplies dropped at your spot or brought to you?
    • Call/Text Cassie at (617)876-5312 
    • Email Cassie at churd@maapma.org

Question 5

BASIC NEEDS

Accepted Answer

CAMBRIDGE
 • Bathrooms
    • Central Square
       • Portland Loo (at Mass Ave & Western Ave in front of H&R Block)
       • Port-a-Potty (Inman St side of City Hall, ADA compliant)
    • Harvard Square
       • Portland Loo (on Cambridge Common at Mass Ave)
       • 2 Port-A-Potties by The Pit (one is ADA compliant)
    • Porter Square
       • 1 Port-A-Potty (Somerville Ave at Porter Square T station across from Anna's)
    • Alewife
       • 1 Port-A-Potty (Steel Place at entrance to Alewife T station)
    • The City of Cambridge has created a map of the available restrooms (listed above) here(https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1hX4LoB-5WDNErePb4OugjmSRgwPvwUI1&ll=42.3882174%2C-71.1186191&z=19)
 • Hand Washing Stations
    • Central Square (these are being refilled with water & soap on Mondays)
       • 2 at Carl Barron Plaza
       • 1 near Multi-Service Center & ACCESS (Pleasant St & Green St)
    • Harvard Square
       • 2 near Culture House by the Pit
    • Porter Square
       • 1 next to Port-A-Potty outside Porter Square Station on Somerville Ave
    • The City of Cambridge has created a map of the handwashing stations (listed above) here(https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1hX4LoB-5WDNErePb4OugjmSRgwPvwUI1&ll=42.3882174%2C-71.1186191&z=19)
 • Drop-In Showers
    • 240 Albany St / CASPAR Shelter (on site)
       • Daily 9AM-2PM
       • NO ID or Intake Required (you are still able to access showers if you have been barred from 240)
       • Towel, Shampoo & Soap provided
       • There are 5 showers (3 for men, 2 for women). We are not aware of policies for nonbinary people. 
    • First Church Showers, University Lutheran Church; 66 Winthrop Street
       • Hours:
          • MON, WED, FRI: 9AM-4PM
       • NO ID or Intake Required
       • Towel, Shampoo & Soap provided
       • For More Info: (617)661-1873
 • Electrical Outlets 
    • Harvard Square
       • Brattle Square - 2 outlets
       • Palmer Street - 2 outlets on cabinet
       • Winthrop Park - 2 outlets on cabinet
    • Central Square
       • Carl Barron Plaza - 1 outlet on cabinet
       • Carl Barron Plaza - 1 outlet in bench
       • Outside City Hall - 1 in bench
       • Jill Brown-Rhone Park (across from Fire Station) - 2 outlets
    • Fresh Pond / Alewife
       • Outside Water Department - 1 in bench
       • Danehy Park Soccer Field - 1 in bench
       • Near Danehy Park Main Garage - 1 in bench
BOSTON
 • The Engagement Center "the tent" behind 112 Southampton Shelter
    • 7 Days/Wk 6AM-6PM
    • The EC has Port-a-Potties, Hangwashing Stations, & a few Showers (people have shared the wait can be long) 
    • Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program is present to provide basic medical care and COVID-19 Screening
    • The Comfort Station has closed.

Question 6

MEALS & FREE FRIDGES (CAMBRIDGE, BOSTON, SOMERVILLE)"

Accepted Answer

Unless otherwise noted, meals are "to go"
 
CAMBRIDGE
 • SUNDAY 
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
 • MONDAY
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
    • First Church (corner Garden & Mason Streets, Harvard Sq) 5PM
    • Solutions at Work (Carl Barron Plaza "The Circle", Central Sq), around 5PM
 • TUESDAY 
    • MAAP (outside 5 Longfellow Park, Harvard Sq) 9AM-3PM
       • You are welcome to sit and eat your meal physically distanced on the lawn. 
    • First Parish (corner of Church St & Mass Ave, Harvard Sq) 4PM
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
    • Solutions at Work (Carl Barron Plaza "The Circle", Central Sq), around 5PM
 • WEDNESDAY
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site 
    • First Church (corner Garden & Mason Streets, Harvard Sq) 5PM
    • Solutions at Work (Carl Barron Plaza "The Circle", Central Sq), around 5PM
 • THURSDAY
    • MAAP (outside 5 Longfellow Park, Harvard Sq) 9AM-3PM
       • You are welcome to sit and eat your meal physically distanced on the lawn. 
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
    • Christ Church (Red Door, 0 Garden Street, Harvard Sq) 5PM
    • Solutions at Work (Carl Barron Plaza "The Circle", Central Sq), around 5PM
 • FRIDAY
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
    • Friday Cafe (corner of Garden & Mason Streets, Harvard Sq) 1PM-3PM
    • Solutions at Work (Carl Barron Plaza "The Cirlce", Central Sq), around 5PM
 • SATURDAY
    • Food Not Bombs (Carl Barron Plaza "The Circle"), 12:30 - around 4PM
    • Salvation Army (402 Mass Ave, Central Sq), 11:30AM-12:30PM
       • Meals are on-site
    • First Church (corner Garden & Mason Streets, Harvard Sq) 5PM
    • Common Care (13 Sellers St., Central Sq), every other Saturday
       • Sit down meal 4:45 pm; bagged dinner 5:15 pm
BOSTON
 • Boston Living Center, 29 Stanhope Street
    • Welcome to people living with HIV/AIDS
    • 7 Days/Wk 10AM-1PM
       • Breakfast (10AM) & Lunch (NOON) takeout 
       • MON - FRI physically distanced congregate breakfast (10AM) & lunch (NOON)
 • Boston Warm, Emmanuel Church 15 Newbury Street
    • M/W/F 8AM-1PM 
 • Cardinal Medeiros Center, 1960 Washington Street Lower Roxbury
    • For adults ages 45+
    • MON-FRI 8AM-3PM
 • Church of the Advent, 30 Brimmer Street
    • TUES 6PM
 • Friday Night Supper Program, Arlington Street Church 350 Boylston Street
    • FRI 5-7PM
 • Haley House, 23 Dartmouth Street
    • Men only
    • SUN-FRI
       • 6AM-8AM Cold Breakfast & Coffee
       • 8AM-Noon Hot Food 
 • Park Street Church, 1 Park Street
    • THUR 6-7PM
 • Paulist Center, 5 Park Street 
    • WED 6PM
 • Rosie's Place, 884 Harrison Avenue
    • Self-identified women only
    • 7 Days/Week
       • MON-FRI
          • Breakfast 7:30-8:15AM
          • Lunch 11:30AM-1:00PM
          • Dinner 4:30-7:30PM
       • WEEKENDS
          • Brunch 10:30AM-NOON
          • Dinner 3:30-5:00PM
 • Women's Lunch Place, 67 Newbury Street
    • Self-idenfied women only
    • MON-SAT 8AM-1PM
    • Breakfast and Lunch
 
FREE FRIDGES
 • SOMERVILLE
    • Winter Hill: Outside private residence 36 Sewall St
    • Union Sq: Crossfit 35 Prospect St
 • 
 • CAMBRIDGE
    • Harvard Sq: Democracy Center 45 Mt. Auburn St
    • Central Sq: Cambridge Community Center 5 Callendar St 
    • The Port: Goree Freedom House 157 Windsor St
 • BOSTON
    • Brighton: Oliveria’s Deli 243 Faneuil St
    • Brighton: BA Congregational Church 404 Washington St
    • Fenway: Mei Mei 506 Park Drive
    • Jamaica Plain: City Feed 672 Centre St
    • Mattapan:  Cafe Juice Up 1290 Blue Hill Avenue
    • Roslindale: Roslindale Market 4140 Washington St
    • South End: Make Shift 549 Columbus Ave

Question 7

SHELTERS (CAMBRIDGE, BOSTON, WALTHAM, SOMERVILLE)"

Accepted Answer

Please look at notes see which shelters may have the capacity to accept new guests
 
CAMBRIDGE
 • Transitional Wellness Center (1575 Cambridge St, Harvard Sq)
    • Temporary non-congregate shelter at the Spaulding Hospital, run by Baycove. 
    • Welcomes all genders, couples, people regardless of relationship to substances
    • WAITLIST: Shelter is full but they have an active waitlist you can join, call (857)270-8775
 • Green Street Shelter (111-115 Green St, Central Sq)
    • Temporary non-congregate shelter run by Solutions at Work. 
    • Strict one individual per room policy. Community members stay in two buildings separated using gender binary: men are in one building and women in another.
    • Community members are welcome regardless of their relationship to substances, but are not able to possess or use substances on the property. 
    • MAAP, On The Rise, Friday Cafe, Salvation Army, Cambridge Healthcare for the Homeless, Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, Heading Home, and Bay Cove are able to refer community members to the shelter.
       • WOMEN'S COTS AVAILABLE: As of 09/19/21 there are only cots available in the hallway of the women's building.
    • Community members must test negative for COVID or provide proof of vaccination before being referred.
    • If you have questions about the referral process, please reach out to Cassie or Rachel at MAAP
 • 240 Albany Shelter (240 Albany St, Central Sq) 
    • Capacity is 60 night-to-night beds (with a few contract beds)
    • Welcomes all genders, people regardless of their relationship to substances
    • Currently at capacity, call (857)348-5333 to inquire about open beds
 • Y2Y Youth shelter (1 Church St, Harvard Sq)
    • CURRENTLY CLOSED - Will be re-opening with Harvard student-run model with limited capacity due to COVID, and beds reserved for 30 days only. 
    • Capacity is 18 beds for people of all genders ages 18-24
    • WAITLIST: They will have an active waitlist you can add your name to via the form on their website (https://www.y2ynetwork.org/beds/)or by calling (617)864-0795 between 7PM-8:30AM
 • Harvard Square Homeless Shelter (66 Winthrop St, Harvard Sq)
    • CURRENTLY CLOSED - Opening for the winter in November 1
    • Sobriety Requirements
    • Staff breathalyzers guests upon entry each day
    • Shelter beds are all claimed and will likely remain full for the season. However, you may be able to access a bed by calling (617)547-2841
 • Salvation Army (402 Mass. Ave, Central Sq)
    • Capacity is 20 night-to-night beds for MEN ONLY
    • Sobriety requirements
    • LIMITED BEDS: Accepting a limited number of new guests, call (617)547-3400 at 6AM daily for a bed, first come first serve
 • First Church Shelter (11 Garden St, Harvard Sq)
    • Capacity is 14 beds for men
    • Sobriety requirements
    • Referral is Required
    • Currently at capacity and NOT ACCEPTING NEW GUESTS, For More Info: (617)661-1873
BOSTON
 • Woods Mullen Shelter (794 Mass Ave, Mass & Cass Area)
    • WOMEN ONLY
    • BEDS AVAILABLE, must have same-day COVID negative test for entry
    • Call (617)534-4440 and leave voicemail with name & birthdate
 • 112 Southampton Street Shelter (112 Southampton St, Mass & Cass Area)
    • MEN ONLY
    • BEDS AVAILABLE
    • For More Information: (617)534-6149
 • Pine Street Inn Women’s Inn (363 Albany St, Mass & Cass Area)
    • WOMEN ONLY
    • LIMITED BEDS, First Come First Serve 
    • Daily in-person lottery is from 3-3:30PM
    • For More Info: (617)892-9228
 • Pine Street Inn Men’s Inn (444 Harrison Ave, Mass & Cass Area)
    • MEN ONLY
    • LIMITED BEDS, First Come First Serve 
    • Daily in-person lottery is from 3-3:30PM
    • For More Info: (617)892-9228
 • New England Center & Home for Veterans (17 Court St, Government Center)
    • VETERANS ONLY
    • LIMITED BEDS
    • Community members can access the shelter via provider referral using this form (https://form.jotform.com/200486336947160)or by walking-in. NCH can only accommodate a limited number of walk-ins per day. It is always best to call to schedule. Contact Christine Tassia at christine.tassia@nechv.org or by phone at O: (617) 371-1708 C: (781) 400-6798 to schedule.
    • New guests must be able to provide a negative COVID-19 test from the previous 48 hours or proof of vaccination upon entry. Results will be confirmed and guests will be screened by Boston Healthcare for the Homeless. Community members approved for entry are required to meet daily with Clinic staff for health monitoring for the first five (5) business days upon entry. 
 • Rosie’s Place (889 Harrison Ave, Mass & Cass Area)
    • WOMEN ONLY
    • At Capacity, NOT ACCEPTING NEW GUESTS
    • Daily lottery when beds available MON-FRI 8AM, Weekends & Holidays 10AM
    • For More Info: 617-442-9322
SOMERVILLE
 • Somerville Homeless Coalition (14 Chapel St, between Davis & Powderhouse Sq)
    • ALL GENDERS
    • WAITLIST: Waitlist is open, Call (617)623-2546 and leave a voicemail with your name & number every day between 8AM-4PM in order to stay on the waitlist
 • St.Patrick’s Shelter (270 Washington St, Davis Sq)
    • WOMEN ONLY
    • Currently at capacity and NOT ACCEPTING NEW GUESTS, call (617)628-3015 for updates
WALTHAM
 • Bristol Lodge Women’s Shelter (205 Bacon St. Waltham)
    • WOMEN ONLY
    • MAY HAVE BEDS AVAILABLE
    • Call (781) 894-1225 MON-FRI at 9AM for daily bed lottery, preferably with an advocate. 
    • COVID tests are not required, temperature checks mandatory upon entry. 
    • Arrive between 4:15-6PM & leave by 7:45AM following day
 • Bristol Lodge Men’s Shelter (27 Lexington St. Waltham)
    • MEN ONLY
    • MAY HAVE BEDS AVAILABLE: Call (781) 893-0108 MON-FRI at 9AM for availability and to participate in daily bed lottery, preferably with an advocate. 
    • COVID tests are not required, temperature checks mandatory upon entry. 
    • Arrive between 4:15-6PM & leave by 7:45AM following day

Question 8

DAYTIME & DROP-IN SUPPORT (CAMBRIDGE & BOSTON)

Accepted Answer

CAMBRIDGE
 • Cambridge Multi-Service Center (262 Green Street, Central Square)
    • Walk-In Case Management
       • MON-FRI 9AM-NOON
    • Housing case managers are still working remotely.
       • To be connected to a case manager call (617)349-6340
    • C-CAN (Cambridge Coordinated Access Network) intakes & assessments remain suspended at the MSC.
       • If you have questions, or would like to access intake call (617)349-7715
       • You may do an assessment with someone from First Step during their outreach.
 • Cambridge Women's Center (25 Mount Auburn St, Harvard Sq)
    • Offers indoor and outdoor services. Ourdoor programming is open and available to all womxn in a safe community space. 
       • Access to laptops & wifi (above 40 degrees)
       • Computer support
       • Resource Referrals
       • Light case management
       • Music
    • To ensure space for physical distancing, there is a limit of 6 members inside at a time. Time limits will be imposed when members are waiting. 
    • People are able to drop-in or call ahead to reserve a laptop for one hour at a time, check on available food & materials, confirm hours, or ask questions.
       • (617)354-6394 ext 3 or 6
    • Hours: 
       • TUES: 4PM-8PM
       • THURS: 12PM-4PM
       • SAT: 12PM-4PM
 • Material Aid and Advocacy Program (MAAP)
    • TUES & THURS 9AM-3PM
    • MAAP is open outside our spot at 5 Longfellow Park
    • How we can support you:
       • Meals, Snacks & Cold and Hot Drinks
          • You're welcome to eat physically distanced on our lawn & take extra to-go (or for a friend). 
       • Hand Washing Station
       • Basic Material Aid:
          • Clothing, Cold Weather Gear, Boots & Sneakers, Backpacks etc. 
          • Survival Supplies: Tents, Sleeping Bags, Tarps, 
          • First Aid, Hygiene & Menstrual Hygiene Kits; Masks & Hand Sanitizer
       • Phone & Laptop Access
       • Phone, Portable Charger & Bracelet Charging
       • Support with Stimulus & Pandemic Unemployment Applications
       • Advocacy & Organizing Opportunities
          • Our unhoused organizers host a weekly organizing meeting on Tuesdays from 3-5pm. We are organizing around priorities raised by unhoused organizers & unhoused community members. You can view all meeting notes, agendas, and resources in our organizing binders during MAAP hours. 
          • You can also learn about current advocacy & organizing opportunities on our daily updates board. 
       • Need to reach us or need supplies dropped at your spot?
          • Call/Text Cassie at (617)876-5312 
          • Email Cassie at churd@maapma.org
 • On the Rise (341 Broadway Cambridge)
    • MON – FRI 9AM-1PM
    • A few unhoused women will be allowed inside to access showers and laundry
       • During these hours staff also distribute mail, bagged breakfast and lunch, and other necessities at the front door. 
       • There is a 30-minute limit per person.
    • Advocates are available by phone at (617)497-7968
 • Youth On Fire (1 Church Street Cambridge)
    • TUES, WED, THURS 11AM-4PM 
       • Make a 30-minute appointment:
          • At the door, OR
          • Call ahead (617)661-2508 (please leave a message) 
    • Services Offered: 
       • Meet with Staff / Case Management
       • Food to go 
       • Clothing
       • Shower
       • Computer Access
       • Recharge
BOSTON
 • The Engagement Center & Comfort Station, behind 112 Southampton Shelter
    • 7 Days/Wk 6AM-6PM
    • Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program is present to provide basic medical care and COVID-19 Screening at the CS from 7am-4pm and at the EC clinic
    • AHOPE SSP is also there on weekdays
    • They have increased the size of the outdoor space for physical distancing and added handwashing stations. 
 • St. Francis House, 39 Boylston Street
    • MON-SAT 6:30AM-3PM 
    • Advocacy and Case Management open 
 • Rosie's Place
    • Self-identified women only
    • Meals 7 days/week
    • Showers (Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
    • Advocacy, career services, legal services
 • The Women's Lunch Place
    • Self-identified women only
    • MON-SAT 7AM - 2PM
    • Showers - sign-up basis; towels and toiletries provided
    • Laundry - sign-up basis; detergent provided
    • Meals: breakfast & lunch

Question 9

HARM REDUCTION SERVICES & SUBSTANCE USE SUPPORT

Accepted Answer

• ACCESS Drug User Health Program / The Exchange (359 Green St. Cambridge)
    • Drop-in space: 5 people at a time for 30 minutes with masks
       • HOURS:
          • MON - WED, FRI: 9AM-12PM, 1PM-4 PM
          • THURS: 9AM-12 PM
       • Syringes, Narcan, safer use supplies
       • HIV/HCV/STI testing, behavioral health, MAT, linkage to care and health navigation
    • Medical Clinic:
       • HOURS:
          • WED and FRI from 9AM-12PM by appointment
       • Primary care, wound care, Hep. C. treatment, and more!
       • Call / Text: (617)927-6499
    • Street Based Outreach:
       • Outreach Schedule: 
          • MON: Alewife, Porter, Davis
          • TUES: Egleston and  Jackson Square
          • WED: Waltham and Everett
          • FRI: Alewife, Malden
       • Call / Text (617)470-0994
 • AHOPE (Outside 774 Mass Ave. Boston & in the CS)
    • HOURS: 
       • MON-FRI 7AM-3PM
    • Drop-in is open
    • Syringes, supplies, Narcan
    • HIV/HCV/STI testing
    • Health navigation and linkage to care
 • PAATHS (774 Mass Ave. Boston)
    • DAILY 8AM-4PM
    • Detox, CSS/TSS & outpatient placements; access to MAT; syringe exchange services on SAT & SUN only
 • Local Detoxes
    • Andrew House – Jamaica Plain: Men Only 617-318-5602

Question 10

STREET OUTREACH PROGRAMS

Accepted Answer

CAMBRIDGE
 • First Step Outreach Van
    • DAILY 2PM–10PM
    • Offering limited transport to detox and testing only
    • Dr. Drew Bunker is on the First Step van twice/week
    • To contact a member of the outreach team, call (617)592-6895
 • The Outdoor Church
    • SUN 9AM-10:15AM Porter Square T
       • Coffee, donuts, socks, toiletries, and generous bagged lunch after worship
    • SUN 2:15PM-5PM Harvard & Central Squares
       • TOC walks around the area to provide meals, socks, and toiletries
    • TUES 6pm-8pm Harvard & Central Squares
       • TOC walks around the area with sandwiches and water to those they meet
 • Bridge Over Troubled Waters Medical Van 
    • MON-FRI 7PM-8/8:30PM in The Pit in Harvard Square
    • Staff are allowing only one client in the van at a time, with a 10 minute limit.
    • Medical services and basic necessities are available for unhoused and underhoused youth between the ages of 14-24. 
BOSTON
 • Pine Street Inn Outreach
    • DAILY (including overnight)
    • To contact a member of the outreach team, call:
       • Daytime (5:00am – 9:00pm): (866)910-7463
       • Nighttime (9:00pm – 5:00am): (617)633-0170
 • Bridge Over Troubled Waters Medical Van 
    • MON-FRI
       • Park Street 5PM-6PM
       • Copley Square 6:15PM-7PM
    • Staff are allowing only one client in the van at a time, with a 10 minute limit.
    • Medical services and basic necessities are available for unhoused and underhoused youth between the ages of 14-24.

Question 11

HOTLINES

Accepted Answer

• EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
    • Cambridge Women’s Center Resource & Emotional Support Helpline
       • Hotline is curretly available for people of all identities!
       • MON-SAT 10AM-8PM 
       • (617)354-6394 or (617)354-8807
 • DOMESTiC VIOLENCE / INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE
    • SafeLink Domestic Violence Hotline 
       • Connects callers to available shelter space in MA and up-to-date domestic violence resources.
       • Operates 24/7
       • Multi-lingual capacity
       • (877)785-2020
    • Transition House 
       • 24/7 hotline for support, safety planning, and connection to resources
       • (617)661-7203
 • SAFER DRUG USE
    • Never Use Alone (MA)
       • You will be asked first name (or name you would like to go by), location, and number you are calling from
       • Staff will stay on the phone while you use and if you stop responding, they will notify EMS of an unresponsive person
       • (800)972-0590
 • Suicide 
    • Samaritans Suicide MA Hotline 
       • ​​​​​​​(877)870-4673
    • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ Youth)
       • ​​​​​​​Call 24/7: (866)488-7386
       • Text Mon-Fri 3PM-10PM (202)304-1200

Question 12

DTA/SNAP, SSI/SSDI, COVID-19 STIMULUS & UNEMPLOYMENT"

Accepted Answer

• DTA / SNAP 
    • DTA is currently available by phone, online through DTA Connect,(https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/) and has limited services available in person. Because of this wait times may be longer than usual.
       • DTA Newmarket (1010 Mass Ave, Mass & Cass Area Boston)(https://www.mass.gov/locations/dta-newmarket-square-transitional-assistance-office-limited-services-available)
          • MON-FRI 8AM-5PM
          • Office lobby is open for self-service options. You can use phones, copiers, or kiosks to apply for benefits or manage your case. Staff is there to assist you with these if you need help. Interpreters are also available.
          • For More Info: (617)989-2200
       • DTA Malden (245 Commercial St. Malden)(https://www.mass.gov/locations/dta-malden-transitional-assistance-office-limited-services-available)
          • MON-THURS 8AM-5PM
          • Office lobby is open for self-service options. You can use phones, copiers, or kiosks to apply for benefits or manage your case. Staff is there to assist you with these if you need help. Interpreters are also available.
          • For More Info: (781)388-7300
       • To apply by phone, call 1(800)249-2007 MON-FRI 8:15AM-4:15PM
       • To check your balance, report a lost card etc. call (800) 997-2555 anytime 24/7 
 • SSI/SSDI
    • You can access remote support online (https://www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/)or over the phone at 1(888)527-9340
 • COVID-19 Stimulus Rebate Check & Unemployment Assistance 
    • COVID-19 Stimulus Rebate Check
       • If you missed the non-filer deadlined for the previous two COVID-19 stimulus rebates, you can apply for the most recent COVID-19 stimulus rebate (and the previous two if you have not yet applied) by filing a tax return online and request the stimulus payment as a Recovery Rebate Credit through October 15, 2021. 
       • You will need to use one of the free file options offered online (the IRS offers a list of them)(https://apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile/). 
          • We have found Tax Slayer t(https://www.taxslayer.com/americanpledge/?source=TSUSATY2020)o be the easiest and covers most individuals (people of all ages making under $72,000 in MA). 
       • To file, you will need to provide the following information: 
          • For each qualifying child during 2020: name, Social Security number or Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number and their relationship to you or your spouse
          • Driver’s license or state-issued ID, if you have one
          • Bank account number, type and routing number, if you have one
          • Date of birth and valid Social Security number
          • Full name, current mailing address and an email address (if you don't have one you can create on here)(https://www.mail.com/)
          • Your 2020 income
       • We are happy to help you sign up for the email & file at MAAP! 
    • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance 
       • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides unemployment benefits to many individuals who are not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, workers with limited work history, and others) who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus public health emergency. 
       • Applicants will need to provide the following information:
          • Your social security number & Date of Birth
          • If you are not a citizen of the United States, your A Number (USCIS Number)
          • Your residential address & mailing addresses
          • Your telephone number & email address
          • Your wage records for 2019, which includes (1099, pay stubs, bank statements)
          • SSN & DOB for your dependent child(ren)
          • Your bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit
       • If you feel you qualify and have the required records, we are happy to help you apply online (https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-pandemic-unemployment-assistance)at MAAP!

COVID-19 SUPPORT & Resources

We have compiled the limited support and resources available during this increasingly challenging time.

We are updating the list every Monday.

reach out with any questions via text (617)876-5312.

stay safe, we love and appreciate you.