Abby’s House Begins Shelter Expansion In Worcester

WORCESTER, MA — A key shelter for homeless women and children in Worcester broke ground on an expansion Tuesday that will double its size, a project that comes as the city is experiencing a shortage of shelter beds.

The Abby's House shelter expansion will grow the Crown Street facility from nine to 18 beds. The expansion will also include private rooms for single women staying at the shelter. This is the first major renovation of the shelter since its founding in 1976.

"This groundbreaking ceremony represents more than the construction of a building; it symbolizes our community's collective commitment to provide hope and support to those in crisis. We are deeply grateful for the support of our donors, volunteers, and partners who have made this project possible," Abby's House Executive Director Julie Orozco said in a news release.

Worcester is heading toward a cold weather season with fewer temporary shelter beds than in years past. After the Hotel Grace shelter closed after the 2021-22 season, it was replaced with a temporary shelter at Blessed Sacrament Church. City Manager Eric Batista's office said Tuesday the city will reveal details of a replacement plan soon.

There are several other shelters in Worcester, but some — like Abby's House — have limited space and work with special populations. The South Middlesex Opportunity Council shelter along Queen Street remains the largest drop-in site in Worcester.

In September, the 15-bed HARBOR shelter operated Safe Exit Initiative, previously known as LIFT, shut down due to a lack of funding.

The Abby's House renovation could take up to a year to complete.

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