Catholic Charities Grace Shelter seeks funding to expand from 19 to 35 beds

Monongalia County officials are grappling with a pressing need for expanded homeless shelter services following a significant reduction in available beds. During the June 4, 2025, county commission meeting, community members and service providers highlighted the urgent requirement for more than the current 19 beds at Hazel's House of Hope, emphasizing that the county's size and resources warrant a minimum of 30 beds to effectively address homelessness.

Jessica Thompson, director of Catholic Charities Grace Shelter, reported that the shelter has seen a decrease in capacity due to fire marshal regulations, which have limited the number of beds from 28 to 19. She noted that the shelter has served 24 individuals this year, including veterans and chronically homeless individuals, but the current capacity is insufficient to meet the growing demand. Thompson expressed a desire to expand services, potentially adding 15 more beds if funding can be secured.

Community members voiced their concerns about the lack of adequate shelter, with one resident urging the commission to explore solutions that could include additional facilities or partnerships with local businesses. The discussion also touched on the need for better drainage solutions in the county, as flooding issues have been exacerbated by ongoing development projects.

The meeting underscored the complexities of addressing homelessness in Monongalia County, where many individuals seeking shelter come from surrounding areas. Officials acknowledged the challenge of balancing local needs with regional demands, as the shelter often serves individuals from outside the county.

As the county moves forward, the commission is urged to collaborate with local agencies and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan that not only increases bed availability but also addresses the underlying issues contributing to homelessness. The call for action reflects a community committed to finding sustainable solutions for its most vulnerable residents.