Urban Ministry Center

Description

Since 1994, with the collaboration of community partners, we strive to meet the basic needs of our fellow Charlottean neighbors to alleviate poverty and end homelessness. Managed by dedicated staff and volunteers, our soup kitchen is open 365 days of the year to serve lunch to 150-300 individuals. Combining the efforts of staff and volunteers, those in need can use our facility for basic services such as showers, laundry, phones, and mail services. Our team of volunteer counselors connect individuals to our community partners for resources such as food referrals, clothing assistance, housing, and employment resources. Volunteers and those seeking services can participate in our CommunityWorks program which encourages self-expression and empowerment through art, soccer, gardening, and running. We also offer educational opportunities for community members to learn more about homelessness and its social implications through presentations to your group and simulations such as Walk in My Shoes. Thanks to community donations, o ur Homeless to Homes pilot project raised funds to build and run Moore Place (opened in 2012) and a larger HousingWorks program. Our HousingWorks program operates under the HousingFirst model which houses those who are most at-risk first and then provides services to maintain housing. This includes working with a social worker to address any lingering problems throughout this transition. The Urban Ministry Center hopes to bring together all Charlotteans to inspire innovative ways of addressing homelessness and poverty in our city.