Kankakee Pastor Seeks City Funding for Homeless Shelter Expansion Amid Council Dispute

Pastor James Smith of the Gift of God homeless shelter in Kankakee has requested city funding to operate the facility, sparking debate among local officials. The shelter, located at 650-660 N. Fifth Ave., is seeking more than $200,000 in taxpayer funds to support its operations, including a 28-bed men’s and women’s shelter and a 12-bed transitional housing unit. This request came as a surprise to Mayor Chris Curtis and city council members during a recent meeting.

Smith, who serves as executive director of We Stand for Christ Jesus Ministries, has previously stated his intention to seek federal or state grants for the shelter’s operation. However, he has not submitted any such funding requests to date. The city council approved a conditional use permit for the transitional housing component, but only for one year. If the shelter does not open within that timeframe, the permit will expire.

Mayor Curtis expressed concern over the timing of Smith’s funding request, noting that it came in late October rather than during warmer months when such matters are typically addressed. He also questioned the precedent of using taxpayer funds for shelter operations. “I’m disappointed this came to us Oct. 5. Why was this not taken up in June, July and August?” Curtis asked.

Council member Larry Osenga, who cast the only “no” vote on the conditional use permit, raised concerns about the lack of community support for addressing homelessness. “It is time for other communities to step up besides us,” Osenga said. “Enough said.” His remarks echoed concerns shared by Curtis, who described Smith’s request as a “threat” and emphasized the frustration of not seeing broader community involvement in the issue.

The shelter, which has expanded from a 25-bed limit to 28 beds, aims to provide long-term transitional housing for individuals seeking stability. The conditional use permit allows for the transitional housing component to operate for one year, with the possibility of renewal if the shelter is successfully launched. If the shelter fails to open, the permit will be revoked.

The situation highlights the complex challenges of addressing housing insecurity and the role of community support in providing care for vulnerable neighbors. As the city grapples with the need for sustainable solutions, the debate over funding and responsibility continues to unfold. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and to defend the rights of the poor and needy.

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