About The WARM Center
The WARM Center is a nonprofit organization based in Westerly, Rhode Island, dedicated to providing compassion, hope, and dignity to individuals and families facing homelessness, hunger, and hardship. For more than 30 years, we have been a place where neighbors can turn for emergency shelter, warm meals, supportive housing, and the resources needed to rebuild their lives.
Our Mission & Values
At the WARM Center, our mission is clear: to provide a continuum of care to the homeless and those in need by offering affordable housing and supportive services, helping them build self-esteem and move toward independent, responsible living.
Our work is guided by the values of Compassion, Hope, and Dignity.
We lead with compassion, recognizing the inherent worth of every individual and responding to their needs with empathy and care.
We nurture hope by creating pathways toward stability and self-sufficiency, believing in the potential for change, healing, and a brighter future.
We uphold dignity by treating every guest, client, and community member with respect—honoring their voice, supporting them without judgment, and empowering them to make their own choices and take ownership of their journey.
These values and this mission shape every program we offer, every service we deliver, and every interaction we have, working together to build a stronger, more inclusive community for all.
Our History
Westerly Area Rest Meals (WARM) Inc. was incorporated on December 15, 1987, with a mission to provide shelter and meals to the homeless throughout southern Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut. In partnership with seven local churches, the shelter and soup kitchen rotated locations nightly from November through March, ensuring that every guest had a warm meal, a warm bed, and a warm welcome.
The original rotation included:
Sundays: Pawcatuck Seventh Day Baptist Church
Mondays: St. Pius X Church
Tuesdays: Christ Episcopal Church
Wednesdays: St. Michael’s Church
Thursdays: Immaculate Conception Church
Fridays: Pleasant Street Baptist Church
Saturdays: Central Baptist Church
Many of these founding churches are still actively involved today, continuing to provide volunteers, meals, and support.
Milestones in WARM’s Growth
1989
Expanded to year-round service with eight churches and more than 300 volunteers, along with support from local businesses, civic groups, Westerly Hospital, and Westerly Fire Department.
1990
Hired the first Executive Director and purchased the building at 56 Spruce Street to create a stable location for food and shelter services.
2000
Purchased the building at 54 Spruce Street for future expansion, housing Attire for Hire, and establishing executive offices.
2012
Russell J. Partridge steps in as Acting Executive Director.
2013
Retirement of longtime Executive Director Rev. Jean Barry, followed by the dedication of The Rev. Jean Barry Center for Social Services at 54 Spruce Street.
Our Programs
Our Impact
Each year, WARM Center provides:
40,000+ meals through Anita’s Kitchen and meal programs
Hundreds of shelter nights for families and individuals
Supportive housing for dozens of families through Harvest Homes and transitional programs
Critical needs assistance to help keep neighbors in their homes and on their feet
Behind every number is a life changed, a family supported, and a future rebuilt.
