NASHUA – With the winter season quickly approaching, the United Way of Greater Nashua is urgently calling on compassionate volunteers to support the city’s Winter Warming Station at the former Elm Street Middle School.

This essential program provides a safe, warm place for individuals experiencing homelessness during the coldest months, running nightly from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. from Dec. 1 through April 30, 2026.

Volunteers will assist with a variety of important tasks, including monitoring guest belongings, overseeing supplies, preparing refreshments and facilitating activities for guests. Shifts are two hours long and available every night throughout the winter.

Because this is a long-term commitment, volunteers are expected to be reliable and available for most of their scheduled shifts, though substitutes can be arranged if needed. Volunteers should be highly empathetic, patient, and willing to follow program rules. The warming station serves a high-need population, and guests may at times exhibit unpredictable behavior. Volunteers must be comfortable with this, knowing that city staff will be on site at all times to provide support.

“Although the warming station won’t open for several months, we are starting volunteer recruitment early so we can plan ahead and build a strong, well-organized program,” said Sara Ceaser, director of Volunteer and Community Engagement at the United Way of Greater Nashua. “Volunteers play a critical role in keeping our neighbors safe, warm, and cared for during the harsh winter months.”

This program offers volunteers a meaningful way to make a direct impact in the community by supporting those experiencing homelessness when they need it most.