United Way of the Plains announces $1 million matching grant for Second Light shelter operations

United Way of the Plains has announced a $1 million matching grant to help sustain operations at Second Light, the city’s homeless shelter. This financial support comes as federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act is set to expire in the fall. Without continued investment, the shelter faces uncertainty in maintaining its services.

An earlier effort to establish an endowment fund through a city sales tax proposal failed when voters rejected it earlier this year. Despite this setback, the United Way of the Plains has committed to providing $1 million over three years, alongside $1 million in matching funds raised by the community. This initiative aims to shift the shelter’s focus from crisis response to long-term stability.

Second Light’s Board Chair, Steve Dixon, emphasized the need for collective action. “No single check can complete this work,” he said. “Not Second Light, not United Way, not any of the multitude of partners we have in this building, can end homelessness on their own.” He called for continued engagement from private businesses, nonprofits, local government, and residents to support the matching fund.

The shelter requires $4 million annually to operate. While the recent grant provides significant relief, Dixon noted that fundraising efforts will continue. “Foot stays on the gas,” he said. “This is a significant gift. It makes a significant impact in the budget, however, there’s still dollars to raise.”

In its second year, Second Light now provides 130 beds for homeless individuals. About 100 of these are part of its Shelter+Services program, which offers beds and services to help people transition into housing. The remaining 30 beds are night-by-night beds, with six reserved for individuals dropped off by law enforcement.

Earlier this year, additional service providers began operating within the shelter to better support the city’s homeless population. These include assistance with obtaining identification, substance use treatment, mental health care, and housing support. The shelter recently received a $100,000 donation from Ascension Via Christi to help coordinate medical services for those staying there.

Nájera noted that some local businesses have already expressed interest in contributing to the shelter’s efforts. “We have heard from many businesses, foundations, and others who are extremely interested in this endeavor,” he said. The United Way hopes this momentum will inspire further community involvement.

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