October 2024 issue
By: Jodi Peterson-Stigers
Interfaith Sanctuary’s new shelter construction on State Street is progressing smoothly. After the construction loan was finalized by Heritage Bank, securing the project’s financing, Guho Construction promptly began work by gutting the old Salvation Army Building to make way for Interfaith Sanctuary’s reimagined shelter.
With the demolition complete, several vendors are now hard at work digging, wiring, plumbing, and building the new shelter campus. It’s incredible to witness the daily activity at the site, with hard hats, safety vests, and heavy machinery constantly in motion. Nearby restaurants are enjoying a boost in business as workers take their lunch breaks and enjoy neighborhood bites.
If all goes as planned, this $15.6 million shelter project should be completed by Fall 2025. Once open, it will serve 205 guests, including families with children, single men and women, senior citizens, and the medically fragile.
The capital campaign is ongoing, with a $1 million match from the Tom and Mary Tomlinson Family Foundation. Donations toward this match will directly support the construction of the Family Shelter designed to serve 101 family members, including rooms for cribs, designed so families can stay together in private rooms. The building will also feature an early education classroom, teen lounge, family library, computer/study room, family dining area, laundry facilities, a mailroom, and programming focused on employment, parenting, finances, housing, nutrition, and more. Additionally, the shelter will include a beautiful garden, playground, green space, and activity area for children to enjoy.
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