Finding shelter when a person is down and out and has no place to go is hard to do. But Loaves & Fishes Ministries has been doing something about since it was established in the spring of 1981 as a short-term overnight homeless shelter, according to its website.
A new Loaves & Fishes center was built in its current location with a warehouse, emergency shelter and office a few years later. Then in 2022, the shelter was expanded to be able to house 20 men and 10 women in dorms along with two family dorms at 241 Justice Center Rd.
It's been on interest to Emergency Shelter Director Brent Briggs for about 12 years ago when he started volunteering. After a few years, he was hired and then became the director three years ago. As part of his duties, he orders supplies and oversees the day to day operations.
The residents are allowed to stay 90 days at a time, but if they leave before the 90 days is up, they will have to wait 30 days before they can come back to the shelter, Briggs added. While at the shelter, the individuals work toward goals and follow rules, one of which is no drugs or alcohol onsite.
“We help people rebuild their lives,” he said.
Loaves & Fishes Ministries relies on volunteers to help prepare the meals for the emergency shelter. Breakfast is served at 6:30 a.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. to residents and non-residents alike.
“We plan (to serve) around 50 (meals),” Briggs added. “Some of the churches cook dinner for the residents, (but) we have more days open for any group who wants to come in to help.”
In keeping with its mission, the shelter also offers an opportunity for non-residents to come into the shelter to use the showers between 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
According to statistics, 197 individuals stayed in the shelter last year. While in the shelter, Briggs also helps the individuals get their IDs, birth certificates and other important documents they might need.
“We've had lots of success,” he continued.
“Loaves & Fishes Ministries maintains a foundational belief in the equality of all humanity and strives to provide clean and safe housing to all guests in a non-judgmental and accepting atmosphere,” according to its website. “The founding group was guided by the lives and ministries of Mother Theresa, Gandhi and Jesus and their message of demonstrating God's love through service.”
But all of this takes money. Numerous churches and organizations donate money to the center throughout the year and the center applies for grants from various organizations to help them as well.
Those who would like to learn more about how to serve are encouraged to please contact Briggs at (719) 275-0593 or email him at shelter@lfministries.org.