Common Ground

For individuals and families in Massachusetts facing housing instability or other complex challenges, finding a compassionate and effective support system is crucial. Common Ground, specifically the **Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC)**, operated by the **South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC)**, stands as a vital lifeline within the state, particularly serving the MetroWest region. More than just a service provider, CGRC acts as a central point of entry for a comprehensive network of emergency, permanent, and sober housing solutions for single adults. This organization is deeply committed to helping people move from crisis to hope, offering not only immediate shelter but also long-term strategies for stability and self-sufficiency. Through dedicated case management, a wide range of referrals, and a focus on holistic support, Common Ground empowers individuals to navigate difficult circumstances and build a more secure future. Their mission extends beyond housing, aiming to address the multifaceted needs of those experiencing homelessness or housing crises in our communities.

Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC) is located at **100 Cummings Center #206l, Beverly, MA 01915, USA**. This address places the center within the large and well-known Cummings Center complex, a prominent landmark in Beverly, Massachusetts. The Cummings Center is easily recognizable and accessible, making it a convenient location for those seeking assistance. Situated in Beverly, the center serves as a key resource for individuals and families across the North Shore and beyond, particularly within SMOC's wider MetroWest service area. For those traveling by car, the Cummings Center offers ample parking, which is a significant advantage for visitors. This ease of access helps ensure that individuals in need can reach the services they require without unnecessary transportation barriers. For those relying on public transportation, local bus routes in Beverly may service the Cummings Center area. It's always advisable to check the current schedules and routes of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) or local bus services for the most up-to-date travel information. The strategic location within a large, well-connected complex emphasizes Common Ground's commitment to being readily available to the communities it serves.

Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC), as part of SMOC, provides a comprehensive suite of services primarily focused on addressing housing crises and supporting individuals towards stability and independence. Their offerings are designed to be a single point of entry into a wide range of critical resources.

• Emergency Shelter Programs:

  CGRC manages and provides access to several emergency shelter programs for single adults. These include **Turning Point** and **Roland's House**, both 18-bed emergency shelter programs for unaccompanied adult men, and **Shadows**, an 18-bed emergency shelter program for unaccompanied adult women. All these programs are staffed 24 hours a day, ensuring continuous support.

• Homeless Prevention and Shelter Diversion:

  A core service is working with individuals to prevent homelessness and divert them from shelter entry whenever possible. This proactive approach aims to address housing crises before they escalate.

• Housing Placement and Stabilization:

  CGRC coordinates connections to permanent housing solutions. They own and manage buildings with **single room occupancy (SRO)** and apartments, providing safe and affordable housing for low-income individuals. Supportive services are available as needed to ensure housing stability.

• Case Management and Service Referrals:

  The CGRC team provides intensive case management, coordinating housing, and facilitating referrals to a vast network of crucial services. These include:

  • Recovery programs for substance use disorders.
  • Behavioral health services, including mental health treatment.
  • Employment assistance and job training programs.
  • Educational opportunities.
  • Legal assistance.
  • Medical services and healthcare coordination.
  • Referrals to economic assistance and social services.

• Peer Support Focused Housing:

  Specific targeted housing environments are available for individuals in recovery who benefit from a peer-supported living arrangement, fostering a supportive community for long-term sobriety.

• Homeless & At-Risk Youth Program:

  This specialized program provides one-on-one case management for young adults aged 18-24 experiencing housing crises. It assists with securing stable housing, employment, and positive family and social relationships.

• Community Support Program for Homeless Individuals (CSP-HI):

  An intensive care management program for individuals experiencing chronic or episodic homelessness, focusing on connecting participants to medical and behavioral healthcare to reduce emergency service utilization.

• Mobile Stabilization Team:

  This program offers supportive services to formerly homeless individuals at risk of losing their housing, helping them develop and implement comprehensive self-sufficiency plans covering housing, income, health, and other critical areas.

• Day Center:

  The Day Center provides a safe and warm environment where adults can access resources like showers, laundry, food, case management support, and referrals to detox, shelter, housing, and behavioral health services, with no appointment necessary.

Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC), as a key component of SMOC, stands out due to several impactful features and highlights that underscore its dedication to serving the Massachusetts community, particularly those in crisis.

• Single Point of Entry for Comprehensive Services:

  A primary highlight of CGRC is its function as a centralized hub. This means individuals facing housing crises don't have to navigate a fragmented system. Instead, they can access a wide array of emergency, permanent, and sober housing options, along with extensive support services, all through one coordinated entry point. This streamlines the process and reduces barriers to help.

• Holistic Approach to Support:

  CGRC goes beyond merely providing shelter. Their team conducts initial assessments and works with each individual to connect them to a broad spectrum of services vital for long-term stability. This includes not only housing but also recovery programs, behavioral health, employment assistance, education, legal aid, and more. This holistic support addresses the complex factors contributing to housing instability.

• Dedicated Emergency Shelter Programs:

  The operation of specific emergency shelters like Turning Point, Roland's House, and Shadows (for men and women respectively) demonstrates a direct and immediate response to the urgent needs of single adults experiencing homelessness. These shelters are staffed 24 hours a day, providing continuous care and safety.

• Focus on Housing Stabilization and Prevention:

  A key objective of CGRC is not just to house individuals, but to prevent homelessness in the first place and ensure long-term housing stabilization. Programs like the Mobile Stabilization Team and initiatives aimed at reducing shelter stays highlight this proactive and sustainable approach.

• Specialized Programs for Vulnerable Populations:

  The existence of the Homeless & At-Risk Youth Program and the Community Support Program for Homeless Individuals (CSP-HI) demonstrates CGRC's commitment to addressing the unique needs of specific vulnerable groups, providing tailored support and resources.

• Emphasis on Recovery and Peer Support:

  By offering peer support-focused single room occupancy (SRO) units and connecting individuals to recovery programs, CGRC acknowledges the critical role of sustained recovery in achieving housing stability, providing environments conducive to long-term well-being.

• Community Integration and Outreach:

  The presence of a Day Center, offering basic needs like showers and laundry, alongside case management and outreach, illustrates CGRC's hands-on approach to meeting immediate needs and facilitating connections to further services within the community.

For assistance or to learn more about the services provided by Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC) in Beverly, please use the following contact information:

Address: 100 Cummings Center #206l, Beverly, MA 01915, USA

Phone: While a direct general phone number for this specific Common Ground location in Beverly is not publicly available, SMOC's main contact lines would be the best point of entry. For crisis support, individuals can call or text **988**, or reach the **Resource & Crisis Hub at 1-800-231-1127**.

Mobile Phone: +1 540-761-8999 (Note: This number appears to be for a different "Common Ground" entity based on the provided information. For the Beverly, MA location, please refer to the primary contact methods above.)

For residents of Massachusetts, particularly those in the MetroWest and North Shore regions facing housing challenges, Common Ground Resource Center (CGRC) in Beverly is an indispensable resource. Its location within the accessible Cummings Center makes it a practical point of contact for those in need. What truly makes CGRC suitable for locals is its comprehensive and compassionate approach. It acts as a crucial single point of entry, simplifying the process of finding help for complex issues. Whether it's securing emergency shelter, finding permanent affordable housing, or connecting with vital services for recovery, mental health, employment, or legal aid, CGRC provides coordinated and holistic support. Their dedication to homeless prevention, housing stabilization, and specialized programs for vulnerable populations like at-risk youth underscores their deep commitment to the community. By fostering independence and offering critical resources, Common Ground empowers individuals to overcome adversity and build stable, hopeful futures right here in Massachusetts.

Common Ground

100 Cummings Center #206l, Beverly, MA 01915, USA