As arctic weather arrives this weekend, City Union Mission has now received and installed customized “murphy bed”-like units called DOME pods at their Family Shelter.
These murphy-like bed units will help the organization reach their ultimate goal of increasing capacity by 30 percent while maintaining the functionality of the shelter. The DOME pods, which are used indoors, are able to create privacy in a large room. They include a bed, a lockable wardrobe, and partitions for privacy.
The effort began in October when the Mission announced the expansion of bed capacity in their Family Shelter in response to the growing needs of homeless families, women and children in the Kansas City metro area.
“With the colder weather comes an increase in the demand for lodging and other essential services,” said City Union Mission Chief Executive Officer Dr. Terry Megli. “We want to do everything we can to not turn anyone away that needs our help. Our long-term goal is a new Family Shelter, but with winter now upon us, we had to find a short-term solution of expanding our bed capacity within our existing facility.”
The DOME Pods were installed in partnership with Shield Casework of Kansas City.
“Providing a solution to homeless housing has become a primary focus of ours, having produced DOME homeless pods on a national level for the last year,” stated Shield Casework Founder and Chief Design Officer Stephen Hopkins. “With the innovation of City Union Mission and Perkins & Will, 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.
–Metro Voice
