Taunton Looks to Establish Winter Homeless Shelter

City negotiating with Father Bill's & MainSpring to operate seasonal shelter system

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:05am

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Taunton is exploring the possibility of providing a warming shelter for homeless individuals all winter long, rather than just during extreme weather conditions. The city is in negotiations with the non-profit organization Father Bill's & MainSpring to operate the seasonal shelter system, which would offer amenities like food, beds, hygiene products, and potential access to showers and laundry facilities. The shelter would be located at at least two church sites and would be open daily from evening to morning.

Why it matters

Taunton has historically relied on temporary warming centers during severe weather, but this new proposal aims to provide more comprehensive and consistent support for the city's homeless population throughout the winter months. The partnership with an experienced shelter operator like Father Bill's could help streamline operations and access to resources.

The details

The city is currently waiting on a decision from Father Bill's Board of Directors about operating the seasonal shelter system in Taunton. If approved, the organization would take care of the grant funding and staffing, while the city would provide the locations, which would likely be at least two local churches. The shelters would be open 7 days a week during the winter, from early evening to early morning, and would offer food, beds, heat, hygiene products, and potentially shower and laundry facilities.

  • Taunton currently sets up overnight warming shelters during severe weather or extreme cold.
  • The city is hoping the new winter shelter system could be operational by this December.

The players

Charlene Bonenfant

Taunton Director of Human Services, who said the city works year-round with local organizations to provide services for the homeless.

Jay Pateakos

Taunton Office of Economic and Community Development Director, who is leading the negotiations with Father Bill's & MainSpring.

Father Bill's & MainSpring

A non-profit organization based in Brockton that has successfully operated seasonal and emergency shelters in other Massachusetts cities.

Todd Castro

Taunton Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director, who said there is no specific temperature threshold that activates the need for a warming shelter.

Deborah Carr

Taunton City Councilor, who asked why a city-owned building couldn't be used as a shelter.

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What they’re saying

“Taunton has always rallied around the homeless.”

— Charlene Bonenfant, Taunton Director of Human Services

“We've had a few other groups reach out to the City that would like to facilitate an overnight shelter if Father Bill's doesn't work out, so there are potential backup options to explore.”

— Jay Pateakos, Taunton Office of Economic and Community Development Director

What’s next

The city is currently waiting on a decision from Father Bill's & MainSpring's Board of Directors about operating the seasonal shelter system in Taunton.

The takeaway

Taunton's efforts to establish a more comprehensive and consistent winter shelter system for its homeless population, in partnership with an experienced provider like Father Bill's & MainSpring, could help ensure vulnerable individuals have access to critical resources and services throughout the cold weather months.