Get the Support You Need
You’re Not Alone. We’re Here to Help
If you or someone you know is in need of help, Open Doors offers a range of services to provide immediate relief and long-term support. From daily meals and groceries to shelter, housing assistance, and educational programs, our goal is to help you find stability and hope.
Some services are available on demand, while others require a referral through 211 or an application process. Please review the list below for details and instructions on how to access each service.
How can we help?
Homeless Prevention
Economic Opportunity Hub
Our Economic Opportunity Hub offers support with job searches, debt reduction, credit building, and money management so you can build a stronger financial future for yourself and your family.
Complete our simple intake form to get started, and we’ll connect you with the right programs and resources.
Community Closet
You are welcome to access our Community Closet to shop for clothing, shoes, and household essentials — no form or intake needed. We offer a respectful, community-centered shopping experience at:
55 Chestnut Street (Smilow Life Center, side entrance on Merritt Place), Norwalk, CT
Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 9:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Thursday evenings: 7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Complete our simple intake form to get started, and we’ll contact you to set up an appointment.
Kitchen
You don’t need to fill out an intake form to receive a meal. Our kitchen is open every day to anyone in need.
Breakfast is served from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Dinner is available 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 4 Merritt Street, Norwalk, CT(Open Doors’ kitchen).
Everyone is welcome to join us for a nourishing meal served with dignity and care.
Grocery Pantry
We offer fresh and shelf-stable groceries five days a week to help households meet their basic food needs, along with seasonal holiday meal support for families. Our Pantry is located at 55 Chestnut Street, Norwalk, CT (Smilow Life Center, use the Merritt Place entrance).
Hours:
Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Complete our simple intake form to get started, and we’ll contact you to set up an appointment.
Homeless Services
Emergency Shelter
Our shelters provide a secure, welcoming environment for adults and families, along with personalized support to help you move from crisis to a stable home.
[Must call 211 (in the state of CT)]
Street Outreach
Our team can connect you with emergency shelter, housing options, and the support you need to find long-term stability.
Call our Outreach Manager, JP Rossi at 203-690-7869
Children’s Resource Center
Our after-school and summer programs offer children living in Open Doors’ care a safe, supportive, and joyful environment to learn, play, and grow. These programs provide stability, enrichment, and a sense of normalcy during challenging times.
If your family is currently staying in one of our shelters or housing programs, please speak with your case manager for instructions on enrolling your child in the Children’s Resource Center.
The Social
A welcoming space for people without homes. Learn new skills, gain confidence, and connect with others to get ready for stable housing.
Fill out our short form to get started, and we’ll help you connect with the programs that fit your needs.
Homeless Stability
Housing Case Management
If you’re living in Open Doors housing, our team is here to help you stay stable and move forward. We’ll work with you one-on-one to maintain housing, access community resources, and strengthen your foundation for the future.
Please contact your case manager to connect with Resident Support Services or learn more about available resources.
Affordable Housing
Open Doors provides safe, affordable, and deeply affordable homes designed to help individuals and families build stability and thrive. Our housing options are part of our commitment to closing the housing gap in our community.
If you’re interested in applying for housing, please fill out our intake form, and a member of our housing team will contact you with next steps.