UPDATE: The Union Gospel Mission (UGM) is set to open its transformative rescue center in Lewiston on February 2, 2024, addressing a critical need for homeless services in the region. The new facility will feature 48 bunk beds designed to provide privacy and dignity for residents, as officials work tirelessly to combat homelessness in north central Idaho.
On a recent weekday, Director Jeremy Stevens detailed the ongoing construction, where dedicated volunteers assembled bunk beds that include private entrances and lockers, as well as electrical outlets for charging devices. “They’re designed for privacy,” Stevens emphasized, highlighting the center’s commitment to restoring dignity to those in need.
The Lewiston center will house men, women, and children, with a total of 96 beds available. The facility’s second floor will accommodate 48 beds for women and children, including 12 beds for single women and 10 family units for single mothers and their kids. This comprehensive approach aims to fill a significant gap in services, particularly as winter approaches.
Data from a national point-in-time count revealed that there are currently 216 homeless individuals in north central Idaho, along with another 77 in Asotin County and 12 in Whitman County. Stevens pointed out that the center will be a crucial resource, stating, “If over 300 people are homeless in the region, we have a 96-bed facility,” underscoring the urgent need for additional services.
UGM’s center will provide free meals, overnight lodging, and support services for approximately 90 days. Residents must adhere to a drug- and alcohol-free policy, as those seeking refuge will be required to pass a Breathalyzer test upon admission. The center will accept mothers and children 24/7, while intake hours for men and women will be from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Unfortunately, not all individuals will meet the criteria for admission. Sarah Reaves, a Clarkston city councilor, expressed hope for the center’s impact but acknowledged the challenges: “UGM will undoubtedly play a vital role in easing the homeless issue within the LC Valley,” she stated in an email. However, she noted that “other services and options are necessary” for those who do not qualify.
The center’s architecture and programming are designed to foster stability and independence. New residents will have their belongings treated in a hot box room to prevent infestations, ensuring a clean environment. A structured daily routine will help residents transition back into society, with scheduled meals and mandatory chapel services aimed at promoting accountability and community.
The facility will also feature a daycare center, an activity area, and outdoor spaces to support mothers and their children. Stevens explained, “We help give them boundaries and provide them structure. That’s part of the accountability piece of what we do.”
Residents will participate in chores and be responsible for their living areas, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. The dedicated staff of around 20 will be on-site 24/7 to support residents and ensure the smooth operation of the center.
As winter approaches, local advocates are hopeful that UGM’s opening will save lives. Michelle King, a volunteer homeless advocate, noted that in previous winters, there have been at least 20 documented cases of individuals perishing while unhoused. “I am hopeful that this winter no one freezes to death,” she said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The Union Gospel Mission’s Lewiston center represents a beacon of hope for the homeless population, offering not just shelter but a pathway toward recovery and stability. As the opening date approaches, community members are encouraged to support this vital initiative that aims to transform lives and alleviate homelessness in the region.
