JACKSON — Jackson Interfaith Shelter is planning a major expansion to better serve families experiencing homelessness.
The organization hopes to build a new, separate shelter facility specifically for families, using a proposed $1 million state grant. State Representative Kathy Schmaltz of Jackson submitted the request during the state budget process and recently testified in support of the project.
Right now, families and single adults are housed together, making targeted care difficult. The new facility would create a safer, more focused environment for parents and children. The current building would then become a shelter for single adults, including expanded space for single women.
The project also includes an overflow building for severe weather and continued access to 24/7 child care, job support, and housing services.
Jackson Interfaith Shelter has served the community for 50 years, offering emergency food, housing, and transitional support to anyone in need. Schmaltz says she’ll continue pushing for the grant as lawmakers finalize the budget.