When did COVID become personal for you? Have you battled the lingering effects of the illness itself? Perhaps you were impacted when your local business shut down or a family member lost their job. Maybe you found yourself struggling with the pervasive effects of social isolation, or even the loss of someone you dearly loved.
As St. John’s steps into another winter season, we know the pandemic will have led more people than ever before to the doors of our shelter, Micah Center and Wellspring. We humbly ask for your continued prayers and support.
CDC’s social distancing guidelines for shelters have forced many providers across the nation to decrease their capacity by nearly half. For us, we know that at least 61% of individuals seeking support at St. John’s, a shelter of last resort, would be turned away in order to comply with CDC protocols. But to enact a capacity for the very first time in St. John’s history, especially amidst a global pandemic, would defy the heart of our mission: serving those who would otherwise be on the streets.
Instead, we have stepped out in faith to secure a second location this season, allowing us to prioritize the health and safety of those experiencing homelessness while still honoring the social distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC. Our effort to provide a centralized location to our guests, a vulnerable population otherwise living and working throughout all corners of the city, helps to diminish community spread and relieves the strain on local hospitals and healthcare providers needing a quick referral.
Your support this shelter season will ensure we can fund the cost increases associated with our second location and help protect the greater Green Bay community from the cumulative effects of a global pandemic. As we navigate the unique challenges of the current season, and continue to walk alongside each guest on their journey to self-sufficiency, we are so thankful to have you with us.
In utmost gratitude,
Dr. Alexia Wood, Executive Director
St. John’s Homeless Shelter | Micah Center | Wellspring
