St John's Ministries proposes year-round shelter in response to rising homelessness in Green Bay

The recent meeting of the Protection & Policy Committee in Green Bay highlighted pressing issues surrounding homelessness in the community, particularly the challenges faced by local shelters. The discussion centered on the capacity and operational strategies of St. John's Ministries, which runs both a men's and women's shelter in the city.

During the meeting, the director of St. John's reported that the shelters have been operating close to their capacity limits, with the men's shelter accommodating 140 individuals and the women's shelter 58. The director expressed concerns about the potential need for a third location if demand continues to rise, especially given the increasing rates of homelessness attributed to the high cost of housing in Green Bay. The director noted that many individuals seeking shelter are employed but struggle to afford housing due to rising rental prices.

The committee members acknowledged the moral dilemma of turning away individuals in need, especially during harsh winter conditions. The director emphasized the importance of proactive communication with city officials to address these challenges and hinted at plans to submit a conditional use permit revision to potentially expand capacity.

Another significant point raised was the need for long-term strategic planning to address homelessness in the community. The director mentioned discussions with the mayor about possibly transitioning to a year-round shelter model, indicating a shift in approach to better meet the needs of the homeless population.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of homelessness in public spaces, particularly in St. John's Park. The director shared insights on past initiatives aimed at providing resources in the park, which faced challenges due to some individuals being resistant to services. The conversation underscored the need for a collaborative approach between the city and local organizations to effectively manage public spaces while supporting vulnerable populations.

As Green Bay grapples with rising homelessness, the discussions from this meeting reflect a community striving to balance immediate needs with long-term solutions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and strategic planning to ensure the well-being of all residents.