This past week I met two young men who are recent college graduates and have signed on with Americorps to spend one year doing full-time work in the service of others. They are assigned to The Shelter in Tallahassee, FL and their focus is on educating the public about homelessness. They speak to local organizations and are working on a documentary.
Violence against the homeless is high and the perpetrators are most often youths. Contrary to public opinion, homelessness is not generally the result of alcoholism or drug addiction, but in many cases, some form of mental illness. Approximately 30% of the homeless at The Shelter are women and children. A year ago, The Shelter averaged about 180 people per night. The current average is about 200 and this number fluctuates upwards to 300 depending on the weather.
The Shelter provides 3 meals a day, a place to sleep, and facilities for taking a shower and washing clothes for its "guests", as they are called. The Shelter gets part of its funding from United Way and the rest from local churches, who take turns providing the evening meal. Unlike some shelters who charge a small fee or have a waiting list, The Shelter is free and never turns anyone away.
Some city officials think that The Shelter is an eyesore and doesn't really help the homeless. Luckily, The Shelter owns their building and has many tireless volunteers who keep it going and provide services to the homeless.
The Shelter is located at 480 W. Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL, 32301. (850) 224-9055
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