Bloomington Breaks Ground on New Homeless Shelter and Resource Center

Bloomington, Indiana, has taken a significant step towards addressing homelessness with the groundbreaking of the new Beacon Center. This facility will replace an abandoned industrial site on the city’s west side, providing both permanent and temporary housing, along with critical healthcare and employment resources. Currently, more than 300 individuals are homeless in Bloomington and Monroe County, and this new center aims to offer them a pathway to stability.

The Beacon Center will succeed the aging Shalom Center operated by Beacon, Incorporated, located on Walnut Street. During the ceremony held on Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Forrest Gilmore, the executive director of Beacon, Inc., described the new facility as a “landing strip” for those in need. He emphasized its role in guiding individuals towards a sense of home and belonging.

Significant funding has bolstered the development of the Beacon Center, with nearly $5 million raised from over 300 donors. This financial support reflects the community’s commitment to tackling homelessness effectively.

One of the attendees at the groundbreaking was Christi Mathis, a former client of Beacon. She shared her personal journey, crediting the organization with her transformation from homelessness to stability. “If it wasn’t for them, I’d be nowhere,” Mathis stated, highlighting her recovery from a 20-year battle with methamphetamine addiction. Today, she is housed, sober, and pursuing her education online.

Monroe County Commissioners President Julie Thomas expressed optimism about the new center’s potential to foster more success stories. She stated, “Compassion and care locally do more to help those experiencing homelessness than heavy-handed federal policing.” This sentiment underscores the belief that community-based solutions can be more effective in addressing social challenges.

Mathis remains hopeful that her story will inspire others to seek help at the new Beacon Center. “I’ve got a car, I’ve got my own home, I’m back in college online now,” she shared, demonstrating the possibilities that can arise from support services. Her experience serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the programs offered by Beacon, Inc.

The Beacon Center is projected to open its doors in either the summer or fall of 2027. As the community awaits its completion, the initiative stands as a beacon of hope for those affected by homelessness in Bloomington and beyond.