Avery Johnson Nov 28, 2023
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) – As the temperature outside drops to below freezing, warming shelters are opening downtown.
The City of Fort Wayne developed a system to provide shelter during the colder months to take care of the unhoused called the Winter Weather Contingency Plan.
“Individuals and families who are going through challenges have a warm and safe place to stay, not only during the day but also overnight accommodations,” said Director of Public Information, John Perlich.
Fort Wayne’s neighborhood services received a $30,000 grant from the state to make it all possible.
The city reinvested that money into the community to ensure shelters have enough resources for those in need.
“We often say that hope begins with a meal, so we have three hot meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided every single day to anybody in our community who needs food to eat,” said CEO of Rescue Mission, Thomas McArthur. “We also have a barber shop, if you are experiencing the crisis of homelessness you might not be able to cut your hair or get your beard trimmed, and we offer that here.”
Other shelter options include:
- “Just Neighbors” located at 2925 E State Blvd.
- St. Joseph Missions Women’s Shelter located at 3505 Lake Ave.
- Rescue Mission located at 404 E Washington Blvd.
Just Neighbors – families who are in need of shelter should call (260) 458-9772.
St. Joseph Missions Womens Shelter – single women who need shelter should call (260) 426-7358.
Rescue Mission – the warming shelter inside of the building is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week regardless of outdoor temperature. They are also offering emergency weather bed nights when the temperature is below 32 degrees. Individuals must be at least 18 years of age, sober when they arrive, and must not have any active warrants to recieve a bed.
“I am so excited to be able to partner with other agencies, other groups, other like-minded and compassionate teams to be able to provide the services and care that our folks need in Fort Wayne,” said McArthur.