UPDATE: The Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is set to open a new rescue center in Lewiston on February 2, providing crucial support to the region’s homeless population. This facility will feature 48 bunk beds, designed to enhance privacy and dignity for residents, as confirmed by center director Jeremy Stevens.
As volunteers assemble the bunk beds amid the sounds of power drills, the urgency of the situation is palpable. With over 300 homeless individuals reported in the region, the center aims to address a significant unmet need. “If over 300 people are homeless in the region, we have a 96-bed facility,” Stevens stated. “That’s a third of the people who could come in right away.”
The new center, located at 419 Snake River Ave, will offer a safe haven for men, women, and children. The men’s dormitory will have private entrances and lockers, along with electricity for personal devices, creating a more dignified living environment. The second floor will house 48 beds for women and children, with specialized accommodations for single mothers.
This facility comes as winter approaches, a time when the risk of homelessness-related fatalities rises. Michelle King, a local volunteer advocate, expressed hope that “this winter no one freezes to death,” highlighting the tragic reality of past winters where at least 20 individuals perished while unhoused.
UGM is committed to making a difference. The center will provide free meals, overnight lodging, and essential social services for up to 90 days. Residents will be required to maintain a drug- and alcohol-free environment to access services. The intake process will include Breathalyzer tests for all adults, ensuring a safe community for all.
Local officials recognize the center’s potential impact. Sarah Reaves, a Clarkston city councilor, remarked, “UGM will undoubtedly play a vital role in easing the homeless issue within the LC Valley.” However, she cautioned that it is not a complete solution, noting that some individuals may not meet the center’s criteria.
The facility aims to provide a structured environment to aid residents in transitioning back to stability. Daily routines will include wake-up calls at 6 a.m., communal meals, and mandatory chapel services three times a week. Residents will also engage in chores, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.
Stevens emphasized the importance of structure, stating, “A lot of what our residents are coming from is a very unstructured, chaotic life. We help give them boundaries and provide them structure.” This approach aims to prepare residents for permanent housing and employment opportunities.
The center will feature a chapel, daycare, and outdoor playground for children, providing a nurturing environment for families. With a dedicated staff of 20 and trained volunteers available around the clock, UGM is poised to make significant strides in addressing homelessness in the region.
As the opening date approaches, the community watches closely, hopeful for the positive changes this center can bring to the lives of those in need. The UGM center represents not just a shelter, but a lifeline for many individuals and families facing homelessness this winter.
