The Shelter

Opened in 1983, Lazarus House's 31-bed emergency shelter is located in the Arlington District of Lawrence, MA. Seven days a week, Lazarus House provides a safe, clean and supportive environment for individuals and families on referral by social service, law enforcement, church or community groups.

Guests are provided with three meals, a place to sleep, showers and laundry services, as well as counseling and referrals for community support.

Guests may stay at Lazarus House while looking for a permanent home. We strive to encourage and support those who are unable to find housing or for those who are working towards making a deposit on housing.

All services are provided free of charge and without regard to sex, race or religion. Above all, services are provided in the spirit of Christ with compassion and in regard for the dignity of each individual.

Lazarus House has 31 beds and 7 cribs, with separate rooms for men, women, and families. Lazarus House provides three meals a day, clothing, laundry, linens, toiletries, infant care supplies, as well as all of the things a family needs to be a family. Our shelter is the foundation to break the cycle of poverty and resume independent living in the future.

Lazarus House provides a hand up rather than a hand out: Structured, supervised environment Guests need to be clean and sober All guests work with staff advocates toward self responsibility Encouragement to save money - budget - develop life skills Responsibility - Household shelter chores

Many people who live at the shelter work full time. Due to limited job training, experience and corresponding wages, an average of 4-6 months is required for families to save enough money to move to a permanent residence.