Funding To Expand Hours Of Binghamton Warming Center

Today, (March 3, 2025), $81,000 was earmarked to expand the hours of a local warming center and to support local homelessness prevention services in an announcement from Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham. The funding was approved by the Binghamton City Council at a special business meeting on Feb. 21, 2025.

According to Mayor Kraham's announcement, approximately $49,000 will go to the Addiction Center of Broome County to expand the hours of the organization’s emergency shelter and warming center. The UP Comfort Center, located at the United Presbyterian Church of Binghamton at 42 Chenango St., has 42 beds for people who need assistance.

This funding will go directly to the agencies on the frontlines of helping residents facing homelessness. The largest allocation will expand operations at the UP Comfort warming center in downtown Binghamton, filling a critical gap in services identified in our discussions with local providers. This funding is one part of our work to keep the community safe and make sure every resident has access to safe, quality housing. - City of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham

With the area’s housing crisis and cold temperatures, The Addiction Center of Broome County, Inc. thanks the City of Binghamton for funding to expand its availability at the UP Comfort Center to include being open on Friday and Saturday evenings. The UP Comfort Center is an overnight center open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. for adult guests to eat, sleep, shower, wash clothing, and be connected to services. - ACBC Executive Director Carmela Pirich

The Family Enrichment Network will receive $16,000 to expand homeless prevention services through the Caring Homes program, while $8000 will go to the Volunteers of America to support its rapid rehousing programs and help find permanent housing for residents facing homelessness, according to Mayor Kraham's announcement.

In addition, the Institute for Community Alliance will receive $8000 to support its operation of the local homeless management information system through enhanced training and data collection.