How you can help

There are several ways you can make an impact. Consider how you can join us in empowering those experiencing homelessness by partnering with us in one or more of the ways below.

Donate Funds 

The Community Day Center of Waltham works to support the most vulnerable members of our community, and your donation allows us to provide greatly needed resources and guidance to our guests. Your donation goes towards helping someone who is struggling with homelessness. The Community Day Center of Waltham is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, dedicated to serving adults in need.

Help us help the under-served of Waltham

$25

Heavy socks for 5 people. Did you know that the homeless walk on average 15 miles a day?

$50

25 rain ponchos that fold small for tucking into a backpack.

$100

Transportation to medical and dental appointments for 10 people.

$500

Ten sleeping bags for people who make their home in the woods and on the park benches.

$1,000

200 hot, hearty, and nutritious meals.

$5,000

Move-in money for at least five people to get into a rooming house.

"The staff here really goes way out of their way, and they use solutions outside the box and they think outside the box. They will work hard and search and do anything they have to do."

- W.C., CDCW Client

Donate Goods

Many of our guests rely on us to provide them with essentials, such as clothing, socks, shoes, toiletry items, and more. New and gently used clothing is always appreciated by the guests at the CDCW, since a fresh outfit can help increase dignity and reduce stigma. These are items we are always in need of, and we are grateful to everyone who provides them for our guests.

Help us to provide essential items

  • We would be grateful to receive the following Items

    Clothes

    • Seasonally appropriate and clean new or gently used men’s and women’s clothing

    • In need of: T-shirts, jeans, sweats, sweatshirts, jackets

    • Practical shoes such as sneakers and boots

    • New underwear and socks for men and women

    • Belts and hats

    Hygiene Items

    • Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, soap, and deodorant

    • Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and alcohol-free mouthwash

    • Sunscreen, insect repellant, and hot hands

    • New face cloths

    • Tampons and Pads

    • Cotton products, like tissues and Q-tips

    • Nail clippers and files

    • Hair brushes and combs

    Other Items

    • Backpacks

    • Sleeping bags

    • Bottled waters

    • Snacks, such as granola bars, chips, etc.

  • We are unable to accept the following:

    • Used underwear or socks

    • Formal attire, such as suits, slacks, formal dresses, heels, etc.

    • Clothing or items for babies or children

    • Furniture. Generally we do not accept furniture, but if you feel you have a good item email director@communitydaycenter.org or call 781-392-6311 to see if we have a use.

    • Drop in donations can be made between the hours of 12:30 and 3:30 pm, Mondays through Fridays.

    • If you prefer to drop off donations in the weekday morning hours, please call in advance to set up a time. 781-392-6311.

    • Please do not leave donations outside of the building.

“I have been a volunteer with the Community Day Center of Waltham for the last 4-5 years. I began my volunteering because I felt the desire to actively contribute to my community. I volunteer now because I see how these donations change lives, one person at a time.”

- P.M., CDCW Volunteer

Volunteer 

Volunteers are the backbone of this organization

At the Community Day Center of Waltham, our volunteers are gifts to both our staff and to our guests. As a small nonprofit organization, we rely on our volunteers to help us create an environment where guests can take the steps that will improve their lives. Volunteering at the CDCW will be a deeply rewarding experience. There are many different ways in which you can help, and we welcome and appreciate your talents and support.

To volunteer at the Community Day Center of Waltham, you must:

  • Be over the age of 18

  • Have weekday availability

  • Commit to serving a minimum of four hours per month

  • Interview with the Executive Director

  • Complete Volunteer Application and provide references

  • Participate in an orientation session

“Each week I look forward to seeing and sharing a smile, a conversation, and a meal with the guests. Helping at the CDCW allows me to be a small part of the change that I want to see in the world, and with the members of the Community Day Center of Waltham.”

- S.C., CDCW Volunteer