Rapid Shelter Columbia celebrates 1-year anniversary, residents share experiences

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Rapid Shelter Columbia, the temporary housing facility for people experiencing homelessness,  is celebrating its one-year anniversary.

Just a year ago, the fifty pod homes on Calhoun Street were being assembled. And now officials say 34 people have found permanent housing through the program.

Allen is a former Rapid Shelter resident who says he struggled with alcohol and drug abuse. He also says his family never accepted him for being gay.

After seeking help at the facility, Allen now has a job and permanent housing.

“And September 1st of 2023 I signed my one-year lease. I have a roof over my head now that I can call my own. I don’t have to worry about where my next meal will come from or where I’m gonna lay my head at night,” says Allen.

Mari Thoennes says after her partner passed away,  she lost her vehicle and home and has stayed at rapid shelter for one month now. Thoennes says she is also a recovering alcoholic.

“I didn’t know there were so many resources, and I’m like, ‘Wow! They come here. It’s amazing. This place does amazing things for people and I have people coming up to me and saying ‘I’ve got a place! I’ve got a place to live!’ And one day that’s going to be me,” Thoennes says.

Ezekiel Harris has been a resident for two months now and says he has started a business doing pressure washing and lawn care.

“If you are feeling depression. If you feel like life is over, it’s just beginning. This program is a great program, so I advise you to come here and seek help. Seek help. You’re not fighting alone when you’re in this program. Because they’re fighting for you,” Harris says.

According to Rapid Shelter management, nearly 50 of its residents have found jobs, and over 40 residents have obtained health insurance.

Noor Jahan Shah has worked as a manager at Rapid Shelter since it opened.

“Not only do I teach clients, but they teach me as well. Because when they tell me their stories, we can relate in some form and that just brings a bond to someone because here, we’re all connected in some way,” Shah says.