A Collaboration
The Dignity Bus is a creative, collaborative effort with the City of Woonsocket to provide 20 emergency beds on a nightly basis.
One Bed, One Night at a Time
Shelter is a crucial basic human need.
The bus provides year-round security, personal safety, protection from the weather, and promotes improved physical and emotional well-being. In addition to emergency temporary shelter, clients are connected to Community Care Alliance and community programs and supportive services to help them address their specific needs so they can eventually transition to safe, sustainable, permanent housing. The bus features double-decker individual compartments, privacy curtains, phone chargers and storage for belongings.
A Few Dignity Bus Stories
Names changed for privacy
Amy is a single female in her 30s who found herself homeless after escaping an abusive ex-spouse. She has stayed on the bus frequently as this is the only safe and secure housing option for her. She has an Associate’s degree and is looking to further her education once she has found suitable, safe and permanent housing.
Karen and Mark are a couple in their 30s. One is a trained, working mechanic and a Veteran who served in the Middle East; the other has a Master’s degree. They are considered too healthy and far above the Federal Poverty Guidelines to qualify for temporary housing. They stay on the Dignity Bus frequently for a secure place to stay while they try to get back on their feet.
Lisa and Tim are an elderly couple who presented to the Dignity Bus in winter. Both suffer from serious, chronic medical issues that have severely impacted their quality of life. One night on the bus, Tim began to experience chest pain and required immediate emergency medical attention. He was admitted to the hospital for a lengthy stay due to a heart attack. While he was in the hospital, Lisa was able to stay on the bus until his release. Both were transferred to a scattered sites shelter.