In the Spotlight: Shelter Association of Washtenaw County
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For our “In the Spotlight” series we’re shining a light on community and housing resources, sharing how to best find support and give support to our friends and neighbors who may need it most. This month’s highlight: The Shelter Association of Washtenaw County.
The Shelter Association is hard at work this winter, operating six warming centers including the daytime Ypsilanti Warming Center and more across the county. We connected with Daniel Kelly, Executive Director of the Shelter Association, about how to access resources and what folks can do now to share support.
Ypsilanti Daytime Warming Center (Ypsilanti Freighthouse)
What should we know about the Ypsilanti Warming Center, and the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County as a whole?
We'd like everyone to know that we are facing record need this winter serving up to 200 people on a given night and over 1,300 people in the last year.
What services or programs might people not know you provide?
Many may not know that we have up to six sites across the County during the winter months. This includes sites in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti area. The goal being to provide people with access throughout the County for shelter and basic need services. Click here for a list of warming centers.
What immediate actions can community members take to help someone experiencing homelessness?
If you encounter someone in need, you can let them know to call Housing Access of Washtenaw County as a first point for help. This call line helps with a variety of housing needs and helps get you to the right place for support. Their number is (734) 961-1999.
If someone needs help immediately and it's after 5:00 PM or on weekends, they can come straight to the Delonis Center at 312 W. Huron St., Ann Arbor.
How does the Shelter Association support individuals beyond emergency shelter?
We work to not only meet basic needs for those we serve, but also help people move into and maintain housing. Our goal is to work on these long term solutions so people are able to get back on their feet and sustainable in housing. Click here for a full list of services.
How can community members who want to provide support get involved?
People can sign up to volunteer directly on our website at Washtenawshelter.org. They can also consider giving an in-kind gift of winter items during these cold months. They can find an updated in-kind donation list on our website or make a financial contribution. They can also follow our Facebook or Instagram to learn of ways to advocate or join the Washtenaw Housing Alliance, a local organization and network of over 30 housing and homeless service organizations.
What else should we know about these warming centers, services, and the shelter association?
We anticipate need continuing to rise rapidly as housing becomes more and more unaffordable in the area. Spreading the word and getting involved is as important as ever!
Additional Resources:
Individuals and families seeking emergency shelter:
Housing Access of Washtenaw County: (734) 961-1999
Delonis Center (Individuals): (734) 662-2829
Alpha House (Families): (734) 822-0220
We’d like to thank Daniel for sharing ways to seek and also provide support, and helping shine a light on these available resources. Learn more about the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County: AnnArborShelter.org
View the latest spotlights and more of what Ypsilanti has to offer at LiveNypsi.com.
