Wheeler Mission-Bloomington — like many non-profits — has suffered greatly throughout the pandemic. But as COVID-19 numbers rise and temperatures fall, the emergency shelter is opening new locations to prepare for winter.
In July, Wheeler Mission shuttered its women’s shelter due to lack of funding. But thanks to a partnership with the city and county along with a new building purchase, the emergency shelter will reopen a women’s shelter and an additional annex.
“We’re packed to the gills in terms of occupancy,” Director of Advancement Chris-Michael Morrison said. “So, the annex is a huge blessing.”
Wheeler Mission can socially distance just over 100 men in its overnight shelter, and the women’s winter contingency shelter, which will remain open until March 31, will house 30 to 40 women. The new annex, a new permanent feature of the shelter, will provide mixed-use space during the day with additional laundry and showers and shelter 15 to 20 men with underlying health conditions or over the age of 60.
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According to Morrison, demand for poverty resources in Monroe County has steadily increased over the past five years. Monroe County’s 2019 point-in-time count identified 380 individuals experiencing homelessness, but Morrison explained that number does not encapsulated the severity of housing instability in the county. Morrison said Wheeler Mission housed around 1,100 different guests throughout 2019. Some stayed for only one night, while others spent most of the year there.
Beyond expanding overnight shelter opportunities, Wheeler Mission will provide a Thanksgiving meal that is open to the public Thursday between 2 and 4 p.m. at the men’s shelter on West Third Street.
“Meal coverage is offered each and every day,” Morrison said. “But for the holidays, we make it special.”
Those looking to donate to the shelter’s Thanksgiving meal or shelter needs can find donation needs at WheelerMission.org.
