North Branch begins renovations at the FIT-NH Family Emergency Shelter and Food Pantry in Manchester

Manchester, NH North Branch Construction has begun work on renovations to two properties in the city owned by Families in Transition-New Horizons (FIT-NH). The renovations, made possible by funds received through the CARES Act, will allow FIT-NH to respond more effectively to operational limitations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and provide assistance for food insecurity and homelessness in the future.

Currently, FIT-NH operates a food pantry at 199 Manchester St. that will be moved to a new property located at 176 Lake Ave. across the street from the organization’s Family Emergency Shelter located at 177 Lake Ave. Renovations at the new Lake Ave. location will include asbestos abatement, roof replacement, structural improvements, installation of new security, fire alarm, and LED lighting systems, bathroom renovations to ensure ADA compliance, relocation of a walk-in cooler and freezer from the organization’s 199 Manchester St. location, and addition of an ADA compliant ramp at the entrance.

The food pantry area at the 199 Manchester St. location will be renovated to become additional sleeping quarters for individuals experiencing homelessness. Renovations will include selective demolition of walls and offices and reframing new partition walls. 

Installation of new LED lighting, upgrades to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing, as well as the HVAC system and painting. 

Dennis Mires, P.A., The Architects of Manchester, NH is the architectural design firm for the project.