How do I get a bed?
To stay in one of our shelter beds you can visit the front desk between 10am and 4pm for an intake. Your intake will take approximately 20 minutes. You will fill out paperwork with basic information about your health and history. Then you will receive the rule book and a bed assignment.
What do I need to bring?
You must bring a valid Massachusetts ID, social security card, or birth certificate. You should also be prepared to answer questions about you previous place of residence before you became homeless and be able to provide proof that you are from the Merrimack Valley:
What if I don’t have an ID?
You can stay for the night but you will need to talk to a case manager in the morning about a plan for obtaining identification. LTLC can provide assistance if you need guidance and can also pay any fees required.
Shelter List for Greater Lowell and Boston
What if I just need a place for the night? / What if I can’t pass the drug test?
The emergency beds operate November thru April, 8pm-8am, and there is no requirement to pass a drug test or breathalyzer. Emergency beds are cots with blankets, sheets, and pillows.
You can take a shower, make an appointment with a case manager if you’d like help finding housing or getting into a detox program, and eat breakfast with us in the morning.
You must check in for a cot between 8pm and 10pm. You are welcome to come a little early and help set up the cots and bedding.
What if I’ve never been in a shelter before?
At LTLC we are committed to helping our guests make the transition to stable, permanent housing. We aim to rehouse people as soon as possible, and we provide support services that encourage housing stability. The decision to enter into a shelter is a brave step. This is not the end of the road, it is a new beginning. We hope you’ll visit us at 193 Middlesex Street and partner with us in your journey from homelessness to housing.
What exactly do the case managers do?
Case Managers promote overall stability by emphasizing physical and behavioral health and nutrition. Your case manager is your partner and your advocate. They will work with you to develop what is called an Individual Service Plan, help you with forms and appointment making, and direct you to services that will help you reach your goals.
When needed, case managers work with those in need of drug/alcohol rehabilitation through relationships with local rehabilitation programs, and can provide transportation.