ServiceNet's First Resource Center Wins Pittsfield Award

Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. presented its Community Award to ServiceNet, Hearthway, the City of Pittsfield, and Zion Lutheran Church for opening The First, a resource center that offers showers, laundry, lockers, and rest space to people experiencing homelessness.

The award ceremony took place May 14 at the church, 74 First St., where The First operates. Between 40 and 50 people visit daily. No identification or paperwork is required to use the facility.

"When we treat people who are homeless as part of the community, we get better outcomes," said Erin Forbush, ServiceNet's senior director of shelter and housing.

Hearthway added nine permanent studio apartments inside the church building and completed 28 additional units nearby, expanding housing options for people without homes in the Berkshires.

Volunteers organize donations, maintain the facility, and plan group activities. Guests have shoveled sidewalks and helped care for the space.

Forbush said homelessness stems from varied causes. "Anything and everything is why people become homeless," she said.

The First welcomes walk-ins during daytime hours at 74 First St. in downtown Pittsfield. More information about ServiceNet's services is available at servicenet.org.