Augusta Overnight Emergency Warming Center

08/27/2026

08/13/2026

Working at the Warming Center isn't always easy. We meet people at some of the hardest moments in their lives, and some nights can be emotionally exhausting.

But we also witness incredible resilience. We see people find safety, trust, and hope. We see community grow where it wasn't expected. Those moments remind us why the work matters.

08/10/2026

At the Warming Center, people often imagine only the hard moments — the cold nights, the emergencies, the struggle. Those moments are real.

But there’s another side, too.

We see kindness shared between strangers. We see someone arrive scared and leave feeling safe. We see laughter over a cup of coffee, a warm blanket offered without hesitation, and staff who show up night after night because hope matters.

What happens here isn’t just messy — it’s beautiful. It’s human. And it reminds us every day that warmth is more than heat. It’s connection.

07/28/2026

FOOD PANTRY PLEA
The church food pantry needs your help. I have been notified by the church treasurer that the pantry has expended all of its allotted funds for the year already. So both monetary and food donations are desperately needed to help us through the next several months. I know we are all suffering sticker shock with the price of food, gas, rent, and utilities, but if you can possibly see your way to chip in, every small bit helps. The number of individuals/families served on distribution day has been holding steady around 27-28, though once a couple of months ago, we had 51. Marcel says the number of people coming into the office for help has ticked up, and I know I restock the kiosk 2-3 times a week. So, unsurprisingly, the need is great!

Food items that are particularly popular and nutritious too, are canned soups (tomato, mushroom, chicken noodle most often chosen), ramen soup, stews, tuna, meal kits, Raviolis, Vienna sausage, pudding and/or fruit cups, oatmeal packets, Kraft macaroni and cheese, juice, and water. Pop top lids are helpful if you can find them.

Thanking you in advance for any help you are able to offer,
The South Parish pantry staff
Mail you donation, or bring your donation to
South Parish Congregational Church UCC
9 Church St., Augusta, Me 03440
Email: [email protected]

07/20/2026

**What if the greatest difference between us isn't our circumstances—but our opportunity?**

*Same Kind of Different as Me* reminds us that everyone longs for the same things: hope, dignity, kindness, and a place to belong.

At the Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center, we strive to see every guest not for where they've been, but for who they are.

**Compassion changes lives. One person. One conversation. One act of kindness at a time.** ❤️

07/20/2026

A Message of Thanks from Julia Stone, Director & Rob Flannery, Manager

We are deeply honored and grateful to receive the Shining Star Award.
This recognition belongs not only to us, but to every volunteer, staff member, community partner, donor, and supporter who believes that everyone deserves a safe place, and to be treated with dignity and respect.

Each night, we witness the strength and resilience of our guests, and we are humbled to serve alongside so many compassionate people who make this ministry possible. It is through your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support that the Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center continues to be a place of hope and refuge.
Thank you to the Maine Homeless Response Coordinators for this meaningful honor. We accept it on behalf of everyone who has walked beside us in this mission.
Together, we will continue to shine a light of hope for those who need it most.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Julia Stone
Director
Rob Flannery
Manager
Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center

07/20/2026

Congratulations to the Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center!
We are proud to celebrate the Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center for receiving the Shining Star Award in recognition of its extraordinary dedication to our community.
Night after night, the staff and volunteers provide far more than a warm place to sleep. They offer compassion, dignity, hope, and a welcoming environment for neighbors experiencing homelessness during Maine's coldest nights. Their genuine care, quick response to challenges, and commitment to treating every guest with respect truly make a difference.
This award recognizes the heart of their mission—bringing light to those facing difficult times and reminding each person who walks through their doors that they are seen, valued, and cared for.
Please join us in congratulating the entire Augusta Emergency Overnight Warming Center team on this well-deserved honor. Thank you for being a shining light in our community and for making a lasting impact on so many lives.
Congratulations on your Shining Star Award!
Hub 6 (the Central Maine district for homeless and housing services) covers Kennebec and Somerset counties. They partner with the state to provide housing, reentry, and youth programs within the region.

07/07/2026

A Special Thank You to Tina Woodward and the Waterville Tractor Supply Team!

The Amy Buxton Pet Pantry at South Parish Congregational Church extends our heartfelt thanks to Tina Woodward, Store Manager, and the entire staff at Tractor Supply in Waterville for their incredibly generous donation of dog and cat food.

Your kindness and commitment to giving back to the community will help ensure that local families can continue to provide for their beloved pets during difficult times. Every donation you made represents hope, compassion, and the spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.
We are truly grateful for your partnership and support of the Amy Buxton Pet Pantry. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of both people and their furry companions.
Please join us in thanking Tina and the entire Waterville Tractor Supply team for their generosity and community spirit!
Thank you for helping us continue Amy Buxton's legacy of caring for pets and the families who love them.