SC $11 million homeless shelter opens in Columbia

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The Midlands Housing Alliance is celebrating the opening of its $11 million, privately funded shelter that aims to give the homeless a new chance on life.

Executive Director Larry Arney says Wednesday’s event caps a 10-year effort to help the estimated 1,300 homeless in the 14 counties in the heart of South Carolina.

The center can accommodate about 200 men and women and is designed to offer much more than an emergency shelter.

Beyond assistance offered on the short term, the center has programs that are structured and help people get jobs, increase their income and move to permanent housing. The center offers computer labs, a nurse on staff and counseling.