MOUNT VERNON — In directing $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding to The Winter Sanctuary, Commissioner Thom Collier said the commissioners wanted to make sure they were helping address homeless issues.
“A lot of times public perception is that government should do things like that, but government isn’t always very efficient,” Collier told sanctuary Executive Director Julie Miller. “We recognize that you are the group that is already doing these services and doing it efficiently.
“We are happy to be a part of it and give you some assistance,” he added.
The Winter Sanctuary’s board approved a capital campaign at its February meeting. Miller said the purpose is “to give us a permanent full-time shelter opportunity.”
The shelter is open Nov. 1 through April 30. Women and families are sheltered at St. Paul’s Parrish House. The men have a shelter on South Norton Street.
“We have a lot of irons in the fire as far as current buildings in place and how to use them,” Miller told the commissioners. “It’s really difficult to have different sites, so if we could have it at one site, it would be better.”
She said the organization is looking for 10,000 square feet, whether that is an existing structure or building new. That amount of space enables separate spaces for women, men, and families.
The organization has engaged an architect to draw up a potential plan.
Miller said next year’s plans include extending staff hours and expanding services to include weekend shelter. As far as opening the shelter year round, she said her concern is having full-time operational costs yet having only one or two guests during the warmer months.
“We would have to have partners refer them to us,” she said. “We have to put it all together.”
In supporting the $500,000 award, Commissioner Bill Pursel said he is pleased the commissioners can play a major supportive role by providing funding.
“This funding will provide a huge shot in the arm to aggressively attack barriers of housing in the Knox County community,” he said, adding that Knox County is a generous community that cares for residents of all ages.
“When people are struggling with housing, we know that this is only one part of the problem. Income, health, and mental health issues all contribute to the housing struggle.
“A holistic approach is required, and the Winter Sanctuary board and administrator, Julie Miller, will lead us to concrete and innovative approaches.”
Pursel said all players of support — such as Behavioral Health Partners, New Directions, TouchPointe, Riverside Recovery Services, Interchurch Social Services, The Salvation Army, Veterans Services, the Main Place, probation offices, and Knox Metro Housing, among others — need to collaborate in positive ways that break down the silos of resistance.
“This will be an ongoing endeavor and not a ‘one-and-done’ scenario,” he said. “The community will need to amp up its support for an approach that will take decades of effort.
“I thank The Winter Sanctuary board for its leadership. May God bless their ministry.”
