Abby's House

Founded in Worcester, MA in 1976, Abby’s House was one of the first shelters in the United States for women. Since that time, we have helped more than 14,000 women and their children reclaim and rebuild their lives. Our mission is, “to provide shelter and affordable housing, as well as advocacy and support services, to homeless, battered, and low-income women, with or without children.”

At Abby’s House, we empower the women we serve to lead self-directed lives filled with dignity and hope. Because we do not receive government funding for our programs, we are able to serve women from all circumstances, helping each woman who comes through our doors meet her individual goals.

Abby's House Programs

Shelter
Our nine-bed overnight shelter provides a safe and secure home for homeless and battered women and their children.

Housing
We operate seven two-bedroom apartments and 72 single room affordable, supportive housing units in three buildings in Worcester.

Advocacy
Each woman living with us is assigned her own Advocate, who helps her identify realistic goals and provides her with the tools she needs to achieve them. Our Advocates empower women to access the resources they need to succeed.

Annette Rafferty Women’s Empowerment Center
Our Annette Rafferty Women’s Empowerment Center is open to current and former shelter guests and housing residents of Abby’s House, serving as a space where women go to find continued support, camaraderie, and services. Here, women can take part in educational programs and skill-building workshops, enjoy a community lunch two – three times a week, or connect with other services they may need.

Thrift Shop
The Abby’s House Thrift Shop serves as a community resource for homeless and low-income women in need of free clothing and necessities. It is also a source of income to support the mission of Abby’s House. Stocked with donated women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, health and beauty products, and household goods, the Abby’s House Thrift Shop is open to the public and provides a safe place to shop with dignity at bargain prices. You can support the Thrift Shop by becoming a customer or donating items to the shop.