Shelter renovations offer dignity and peace

By Mardi Suhs

CADILLAC Community support for New Hope Homeless Shelters in Cadillac has funded the renovation of the men's shelter at 814 Lynn St.

A Cadillac Rotary Club grant and donations from individual contributors provided the funding for new flooring, a bathroom remodeling project that opened up more living and dining room space and new beds.

An open house for the public is being held from 4 to 7 p.m. today. There will be tours and light refreshments.

Five New Hope Shelters provide temporary housing for 37 people.

In 2013, after an anonymous donor gave $100,000 for the purpose, a shelter for women was opened. The shelter had 15 beds. Two family shelters provide beds for 15 people, and the men's shelter can house seven.

In the last fiscal year, the men's and women's shelters each provided housing for more than 100, and the family shelters provided beds for more than 260 men, women and children.

The shelters provide food, safety and shelter to the homeless regardless of why they are in need.

"This renovation for the men has been a long process," said Brenda Wright, director of New Hope. "But there's a sense of dignity in the house now. They are homeless, but they still need a nice place. It gives them a sense of peace and rest, plus dignity."

Shelter residents meet with case managers every week to discuss their goals and progress, while area agencies help them find jobs and permanent housing.

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Shelter renovations offer dignity and peace