New Seasonal Shelter Opens to Serve City’s Homeless Population

Min Dale Edwards Executive Director Call and Post

A new seasonal shelter has officially opened its doors at 2100 Lakeside Avenue, offering critical relief and renewed hope for the city’s homeless population as colder weather approaches.

City officials, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates gathered at the Lakeside Avenue site for the opening, calling the shelter a vital step in addressing homelessness and ensuring that no resident is left without a safe place to sleep. The facility provides overnight accommodations, hot meals, access to showers, and connections to essential services, including mental health support, job placement assistance, and pathways to long-term housing.

“This shelter is about more than beds—it’s about dignity, safety, and opportunity,” city leaders said during opening remarks. “Every person deserves warmth, compassion, and a path forward.”

The seasonal shelter will operate during the most critical months, when exposure to extreme weather poses the greatest risk. Staffed by trained professionals and volunteers, the site prioritizes safety and works closely with outreach teams to engage individuals living on the streets or in encampments throughout the city.

Community advocates noted the shelter reflects a collaborative effort among the city, faith-based organizations, and nonprofit partners. Donations of coats, blankets, and hygiene supplies have already begun arriving, underscoring strong public support.

For those experiencing homelessness, the shelter represents a lifeline during the winter months. City officials stressed that while the opening marks meaningful progress, it is part of a broader strategy focused on long-term housing stability and homelessness prevention.

Residents interested in volunteering or donating were encouraged to contact city officials or partner organizations for more information.