Owosso, Michigan, church opens overnight homeless shelter for winter months

Owosso Christ Episcopal Church is providing a vital service to the community by opening an overnight homeless shelter for the winter months. The shelter, which operates from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m., will be available starting Monday and will run through the end of March. It is designed to serve up to 20 individuals, with separate sleeping areas for men and women, and includes a small breakfast for those staying.

Becky Most, associate director of programs and services at Hope Works Mid-Michigan, which helps manage the shelter, has a personal connection to the issue of homelessness. She once faced the challenge of homelessness herself, living in her parents’ home with her children after her divorce. “I felt alone, I had no support, I had no village,” she recalled. “It was really hard for me and my children for a very, very long time.”

Most now sees the transformative power of support and hope. “It’s just beautiful to see someone who can’t even look you in the eye, to having their own apartment,” she said. “It’s because we say, we see you, here’s a safe place to stay, while you get your life in order.”

Hope Works Mid-Michigan identified a need in Shiawassee County and took action. Since October 1st, the organization has connected 15 individuals with shelter and support services. “15 people is a fair number when you look at the size of the community,” said Hope Works Director Jake Gregory. He emphasized that homelessness in small towns is often hidden, making access to resources even more critical.

Gregory noted that rural areas often have high rates of homelessness, yet it is less visible due to the nature of these communities. “Those folks know where to hide and lie low, so they’re not at the forefront,” he explained. Ensuring access to support in such areas is essential for addressing the issue effectively.

The shelter is more than a place to sleep; it is a hub for connecting individuals with the resources they need to regain stability. Most stressed the importance of providing not just beds, but also support for self-sufficiency. “We’re getting them connected with our case manager,” she said. “That connects our guests to housing programs, mental health services, and addiction and recovery services if they need.”

Those seeking shelter can reserve a bed by visiting gimishelter.org. Hope Works Mid-Michigan is also actively seeking additional paid staff, volunteers, and donations to continue its mission.

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