Homeless Shelter Opens in West Union After Five-Year Effort

The new homeless shelter in West Union, Ohio, officially opens Monday, offering a centralized location for those in need. This long-awaited initiative, the result of over five years of effort by shelter staff and local county officials, aims to provide better access to essential services and employment opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Robert Boldman, director of Adams County Shelter for the Homeless Inc., has been operating a shelter in Blue Creek, but the new location in West Union is a significant improvement. “Now our clients that will be staying at the shelter will be near the health services they need, and they can walk to jobs they may find nearby, instead of trying to find rides into town,” Boldman explained. This strategic move is expected to enhance the quality of life for those utilizing the shelter’s services.

The shelter’s new location at 11483 Ohio 41 is a former home that has undergone renovations. The building will serve as offices, additional client rooms, and a large kitchen. A double-wide unit from the previous Blue Creek shelter has been relocated to the new site, ensuring continuity of care and resources. Boldman emphasized the need for financial donations and furniture, particularly bunk beds and an outdoor storage building, to complete the renovations and sustain operations.

Adams County Commissioner Brian Baldridge noted that the shelter operates independently, funded through federal and state stimulus grants rather than county general funds. “We are happy the folks involved in the shelter have finally realized their vision of being centrally located in the county,” Baldridge said, highlighting the community’s support for the initiative.

The shelter is holding a grand opening on Monday, November 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring tours and a Schwan frozen food truck to aid in fundraising efforts. Boldman expressed hope for community, business, and governmental participation in supporting the shelter’s ongoing operations and future expansion.

Boldman, who also serves as the grant writer, mentioned an Emergency Shelter Grant from the Ohio Department of Development for $134,400 to cover daily operations. However, he stressed the importance of local contributions, both financial and through volunteer efforts, to ensure the shelter’s sustainability.

Boldman’s involvement with the shelter began during his tenure with the Ohio Department of Mental Health. His commitment to serving the vulnerable aligns with the shelter’s mission to care for neighbors in need, reflecting a deep concern for the well-being of the community.

Source: Read the original report