Question and Answer Forum Address Homeless Shelter

(WOLO) COLUMBIA.S,C., —

If they haven’t heard already, or have only been getting bits and pieces of information, this was the forum to attend. Council Cameron Runyan who proposed a 24 hour emergency winter homeless shelter held the public forum to educate the public on how the facility will work once it opens in two weeks.

There have been several meetings held to vote on, and give city officials a chance to discuss the new location, but this was the first time concerned residents and members of the homeless population have been able to ask specific questions and have them answered on the spot.

Emergency Shelter Assisting Organizer, Pastor Jimmy Jones quell a few concerns explaining three full meals will be served at the facility on a daily basis, there will be no tolerance for smoking, drug or alcohol use in or around the facility and gave more details about a shuttle service that will routinely drop off and pick up shelter residents at various service areas throughout the city.

Pastor Jones addressed concerns about overflow in the new facility that according to the fire code, only has room for 248 people. Jones says other facilities will remain operational which should keep overflow from being a significant concern.

The goal of the shelter is to accept those living on the street in need of emergency shelter only. According to Pastor Jones and Councilman Runyan, staff will seek out residents specific needs in hopes of being able to get them needed assistance and out on their own within the first 7 days of their arrival.

The shelter is scheduled to open it’s doors September 24th.