City Union Mission is expanding its bed capacity in their Family Shelter in response to the growing needs of the homeless. The addition of shelter beds comes just in time for the winter season when the Mission experiences an increase in demand.
“We are looking to utilize every available space at our Family Shelter to ensure our guests feel safe, secure, valued and respected,” said City Union Mission Chief Executive Officer Terry Megli. “Our long-term goal is a new Family Shelter, but with winter fast approaching, we sought a short-term solution of expanding our bed capacity within our existing facility.”
In partnership with Shield Casework of Kansas City, the Mission will install eight customized “murphy bed” like units called DOME pods as well as 20 plus more traditional bedding units to expand lodging capacity by 30 percent while maintaining the functionality of their Family Center.
“Providing a solution to homeless housing has been a primary focus of ours, having produced DOME homeless pods on a national level for several months,” states Shield Casework Founder and Chief Design Officer Stephen Hopkins. “With the innovation of City Union Mission, we are excited to bring this solution to our local city where we see the need on a daily basis.”
The Mission is seeking community support to help fund the cost of the expansion along with the extra staff and additional bathrooms and showers needed to accommodate more homeless guests.
“For a family in crisis, a safe, comfortable bedroom provides a welcoming start on their journey to recovery,” said Megli. “We are asking the community to help provide this comfortable space that vulnerable families can seek refuge in this winter and throughout the year.” Financial contributions towards the Family Shelter expansion can be made at www.cityunionmission.org.
For more information about the Mission’s comprehensive programs and services for the homeless and hurting, visit cityunionmission.org.