Local Volunteer Group Working To Set Up Shelter For Those In Need In The Area

A volunteer group has been established to work through the Washington County Partnership office to investigate the possible locations and workings of a shelter for those in need locally.

Two shipping containers that have been converted into temporary housing units have been given to Washington County for use to provide shelter for those who need some help.

The units, pictured above, offer individual rooms for both men and women who are unsheltered.

The units are temperature controlled and have security cameras for everyone’s safety. There is also a mobile shower and restroom unit that is being remodeled at this time.

The installation will be monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by authorities and coordinators who will work with those using the shelter.

The units are coming from St. Francois County where they have been used for some time. St. Francois County is now building a new facility for sheltering those in need.

The coordinators will assist those staying with access to help and beneficial programs that will provide the individual with assistance.

Partnership Director Debby Bust has released information about the project to the community and has also provided additional information on other resources for those in need.

There are coats, hats, gloves and socks available at the Partnership; clothing, food and showers are available now at The Overflow, a new resource Center on M, W, & F, 10 A.M. - 2 P.M. at the First Baptist Church; New Hope and New Beginnings Church on Springtown Road is offering soup & sandwiches Dec. 15th and Dec. 29th from 1 - 7 p.m.; Book of Acts on Jefferson Street has a new Food Bank open Thursdays Noon - 6 p.m. and after Church on Sundays; and Life Church has breakfast 8:30 a.m., lunch 11:30 a.m. and snacks 2 p.m. available M-F to go or eat in.

Debby Bust said, “We are grateful for the generosity the community has shown. If you would care to get involved in this mission, call the Partnership at 573-438-8555.”