Community is Our Cause!

Most recently, I had the opportunity to visit our Overflow Shelter on the west side of Columbus.  During my visit, I spent some time getting to know our staff and to speak with some of the residents at the shelter.

Each night, the doors of the shelter open at 8:00 pm to provide a warm place to 130 men seeking refuge from the streets.  The facility closes each morning at 7:00 am and residents are issued a bus pass to return in the evening when the shelter reopens.  At the 7,000 square foot facility, we offer individuals a warm cot or bunk bed and sometimes a bite to eat when resources are available.  Although not considered lavish by most, we provide simple needs to men who otherwise would not have access to food or shelter.  In speaking with the residents, I couldn't help wishing there was something more we could do in addition to meeting their most basic and immediate needs.  However, I recognize our efforts go a long way to these men on a cold winter night.

In addition to meeting emergency shelter needs, the Y offers Residential Services & Supportive Housing assistance to help our homeless and at-risk-of homeless populations regain their independence.  Recognizing the social impact of homelessness in our communities we provide affordable living, supportive services and the conveniences of home to individuals.  Through our housing initiative, residents receive life skills counseling, health and medical care, as well as links to food and clothing resources in the community.  Additionally, individuals receive employment training, assistance with job searches; résumé building, career development and job readiness to assist them in transitioning back into the work force.

As I reflect on our efforts to reduce homelessness in our community, I am extremely proud to be a part of an association that not only provides vital services, but intentionally focuses on supporting change in the lives of those who need us the most.  In doing so, our efforts truly speak to our core mission to service the whole community through programs expressing Judeo-Christian principles that build a healthy spirit, mind and body.  

The services we provide assist individuals in becoming hopeful, self-sufficient and productive members of our society.  Through our collaboration with other agencies, we are working together to reduce homelessness and to provide an atmosphere where people feel healthy, confident and connected to their community.