Welcome to Second Avenue Commons.
A place where those experiencing homelessness can find the help they need. A collaboration of four entities – Pittsburgh Mercy, UPMC, Allegheny County Department of Human Services, and Second Avenue Commons Inc. – have come together to serve those who are without permanent, stable housing.
Here you will find shelter access for adults and their partners, pets, possessions, an engagement center, supportive case managers, and healthcare.
I NEED…
A Place to stay
Year-round Emergency Shelter and Seasonal Winter Shelter
Medical Services
UPMC Clinic Care
Engagement Center
Support and Services
our goal is simple.
Provide a safe, supportive environment for adults experiencing homelessness to connect to the resources they need to move toward permanent housing.
What does Second Avenue Commons Offer?
24/7 Access Shelter
92 beds in group sleeping rooms with dedicated personal hygiene facilities, space for pets, laundry, meals, and storage facility. Additional space to accommodate 40 people during winter months.
Engagement Center
A warm, welcoming environment that encourages individuals to become more deeply connected to available supports and services and provides a hygiene center, mail pick-up, and laundry facilities.
On-site UPMC Clinic
Physical and behavioral health services including drug and alcohol support.
Central Location
An easy-to-access hub in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, conveniently located near several major bus lines.
Common Questions
View Our Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What services does The Commons offer?
A: We offer 24/7 everyday access to our shelter, Engagement Center, UPMC clinic, and housing programs. There are diversion services, housing-focused case management, collaboration with ACDHS’ coordinated entry system, and meal services. Wi-fi, laundry and other amenities are available here.
Q: How many shelter beds are offered at The Commons?
A: We offer 95 beds, with space to add 40 additional beds during cold weather months.
Q: What is the UPMC Clinic?
A: The UPMC Health Center is staffed by UPMC with physical and behavioral health services.
Q: What are the single occupancy rooms (SRO)?
A: Clients of two different housing programs occupy the SRO Units. Community Human Services operates Community Bridge, a 20-bed, single occupancy bridge housing program on the 4th floor of the building. Neighborhood Living Programs of UPMC Western Psychiatric operate Brighter Dawn, a 20-SRO Permanent Supportive Housing program on the 5th floor. ACDHS’s coordinated entry team (Allegheny Link) manages referrals for both programs.
Q: What is the Engagement Center?
A: The Engagement Center is where people can sit down and rest, with showers, laundry facilities, charging stations, coffee, computers, and Wi-Fi. In addition, people can connect with staff that will help with goals like being housed, getting insurance and identification and being navigated to other needed services.
Q: When can I use the facilities?
A: The Shelter is 24/7. The Medical Clinic is open Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm. The Engagement Center is open daily from 7am to 7pm.
Q: Is the Commons ever closed?
A: The facility is open to Shelter and SRO residents 24/7 every day of the year.
700 Second Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15219
412-775-9001
info@secondavenuecommons.org
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