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Salina Grace is set to open its Winter Shelter on November 15, providing essential warmth and safety for people facing homelessness in Salina. The low-barrier facility shelter will remain open through March 15, 2025, offering a refuge for men, women, and families during the harsh winter months. Now in its eighth season, Salina Grace Winter Shelter has become a vital resource. Last winter, 72 men, 53 women, and one child benefitted from its services.
As a low-barrier shelter, Salina Grace aims to make entry accessible. Individuals actively struggling with addiction, for instance, are welcome, provided their blood alcohol content remains under .170, and they cooperate with staff. The shelter’s inclusivity, however, does have boundaries to ensure safety for all; no registered sex offenders are permitted to stay, recognizing the presence of women and families among its guests.
Addressing a Rising Need in the Community
Salina, like many communities, faces a growing homelessness crisis driven by rising living costs, limited affordable housing, mental health challenges, addiction, and domestic violence. By providing a safe and warm place to sleep, Salina Grace serves those in immediate need and contributes positively to the community as a whole.
“This shelter gives individuals an opportunity to get off the streets and opens doors for a better life tomorrow,” said Chad Young, Director at Salina Grace.
During the day, guests of the Winter Shelter have access to Salina Grace’s Community Resource Center, which has been operating since January 2022 and recently relocated to 315 S. Broadway Blvd. The Resource Center serves as a day shelter, offering a hot meal and navigation services to help individuals connect with local agencies for more comprehensive support. The center functions as a “clearing house” for local services, aiming to eliminate barriers for people seeking help.
Community Support Makes It Possible
The City of Salina has been a proactive supporter of Salina Grace’s efforts, recognizing the organization’s impact on homelessness in the community. In addition, local foundations, including the Earl Bane Foundation, Salina Regional Health Foundation, McCune Foundation, Salina Charities League, and United Way, along with numerous churches and businesses, have played a significant role in helping Salina Grace operate and expand its services.
While the support Salina Grace receives is vast, the rising demand means ongoing community involvement is more essential than ever.
“Some need more help than others, each person has their own story, their own situation," Young said. “We’re here to do what we can, knowing that sometimes our help can make all the difference.”
The organization encourages individuals and businesses who would like to contribute to Salina Grace’s mission to visit SalinaGrace.org/donate to make a donation. As winter approaches, every contribution helps provide a critical safety net for those in need.
For further information or to get involved, please get in touch with Salina Grace through their website or visit the Resource Center at 315 S. Broadway Blvd.