Early last month, we announced the opening of an emergency overnight shelter in La Porte, in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of La Porte and the Center Township Trustee’s office. The response from the community, partners, and private businesses was overwhelmingly positive. We opened this shelter as the season’s coldest weather and deadly sub-zero temperatures set in.
In just our first weeks of operation, the impact has been significant. We’ve provided 81 bed nights of safe shelter that breaks down to – 48 women and 33 men – while welcoming 16 new guests through our doors (6 women and 10 men). We have provided 162 meals, ensuring that no one goes hungry during their stay so that they may rest well. Most importantly, we’ve already helped three individuals transition into housing, marking significant victories in these guests’ lives and our partnership.
- Bed nights- Women-48, Men-33
- New Guests- Women-6, Men-10
- Meals- 162
- Guests Housed- 3
- Volunteer Hours-181
Nest La Porte’s success thus far would not be possible without our amazing volunteers, who have contributed 181 hours of their time and energy to support our mission. Their dedication, particularly the volunteer outreach throughout our supporters, the La Porte Community, and beyond, has been instrumental in making this shelter a welcoming and supportive environment for all who enter.
Earlier this past week, at a LaPorte city council meeting, Mayor Tom Dermody of La Porte acknowledged our organization’s efforts, highlighting this emergency shelter’s vital role in our community. Other partners, private businesses, and city departments were recognized for their valuable work in bringing this shelter to La Porte. This recognition reinforced the importance of community partnerships in addressing homelessness effectively.
Operating as an emergency, temporary overnight shelter until March 31st at Nest La Porte, we do more than just provide beds and meals. Our partnership with The Center Township Trustee’s Office connects guests with comprehensive case management services, helping them navigate paths toward stable housing and sustainable independence.
The temporary use of La Porte’s historic train depot as a shelter symbolizes our community’s commitment to repurposing our architectural heritage for the greater good. Just as trains once connected communities and provided new opportunities for travelers, this building continues its legacy of service by connecting our neighbors experiencing homelessness with the resources and support they need to move forward in their lives.
As we continue this important work, we’re grateful for the overwhelming support from our community partners, volunteers, and local government. Together, we’re saving lives from the brutal cold with warmth and compassion.
If you’d like to stay up to date with Nest La Porte, be sure to follow us on their social media channels:
- Click here to follow Nest La Porte’s Facebook Page
- Click here to follow Nest La Porte’s Instagram Page
- Click here to sign up for our email newsletter from Nest Community Shelter
