for participants

On the Rise is a day shelter. We offer long-lasting, transformative relationships that foster safety and belonging, respect differences, and build community for you.

are you…

  • Unhoused or don’t have a permanent, safe, secure place to live?

  • A woman, transgender, or nonbinary person?

  • In crisis?

  • Dealing with traumatic physical and/or emotional abuse by people and/or systems?

  • Falling through the cracks of our human service system because of the multiple and complex issues you face like medical issues, mental health concerns, substance use, and/or criminal history?

  • Not using other programs; using other programs but nothing is helping, or are barred from other programs?

  • Living in severe poverty?

Find out how we can help

Drop In:

Mon 8:30am - 3:30pm

Tues 12:00pm - 3:30pm

Wed 8:30am - 3:30pm

Thurs 9:30am - 3:30pm

Fri 8:30 - 3:30

Sat/Sun CLOSED

OR Call:

(617) 497-7968

we’re here for you…

On your first visit to our day shelter, an Advocate will do an intake to find out how we can be helpful. You do not have to share anything you do not want to.

If On The Rise is not a good fit for what you are looking for, the Advocate will help you find a program that can better meet your needs.

Advocates can help you with lots of issues:

  • homelessness

  • domestic violence

  • sexual abuse

  • mental health issues

  • criminal issues

  • benefits

  • medical issues

  • trouble with the system

Advocates can also meet with you in the community, over the phone, or on a video call. They can go with you to appointments and help with other organizations. Personal support is given at your own pace and trusting relationships are nurtured over time. 

On The Rise also offers a sense of community and belonging for everyone through special programming, services, and resources. Find out more on our What We Do page. We are an LGBTQI-friendly program.

on-sight services

  • Meals

  • Showers

  • Phones

  • Computers

  • Clothing

  • Laundry

  • Toiletries

  • Day-to-day supplies

  • Mailing address

  • Advocacy

  • Lockers

Keep The Keys

Empowering independence through housing security. Support for individuals as they move into housing and help staying housed.

What we :

  • Help with housing applications

  • Assistance with moving/start-up costs

  • Provide emergency funds to avoid eviction

  • Connect to community resources

  • Manage finances

  • Help furnish new homes

  • Offer support groups

  • Home visits plan

  • Intervene with property managers and landlords if problems arise

  • Maintain enduring relationships

Keep The Keys program (circa 2008) was established in direct response to participant feedback. Having trusted, consistent service providers through the transition to housing is invaluable. We recognize the challenges this transition brings. We provide unwavering support, making sure people feel connected to On The Rise and our community throughout the journey to housing security and well being.

Community

On The Rise places special emphasis on community building as a part of the relationship we have with our participants. Our Safe Haven is not just a place to be, but a community to belong to. Through intentional programs and signature events that celebrate important moments throughout the year like the Memorial Garden Ceremony, Summer Cookout, Joy Day, Thanksgiving Feast, and Holiday Party, opportunities are created for shared experiences and meaningful connections.

On The Rise values the diversity of all and believes that no one is beyond help. We work with a broad and deep commitment to end racism, oppression, and all forms of discrimination that divide us. We offer intentional programs, such as our Trans Access Program - TAP; we educate our community, and we lift up the needs of individuals who face various forms of oppression.

We do these things in order to create a community of belonging, safety, and accountability.

Find local listings of community programs such as food support, housing, job training, and more. 

Resources