Oxford council approves $70,000 grant to Vineyard Church to fund winter cold shelter

City Council approved a resolution authorizing a $70,000 grant to Oxford Vineyard Church to operate an emergency cold shelter for adults experiencing homelessness during the winter season.

City staff presented the program plan and recommended approval. The grant will be provided in early October to allow time for space build‑out and preparations; funds will come from interest earned on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations. Under the grant agreement the Vineyard will serve as fiscal agent, hire two contracted coordinators, recruit and manage volunteers, run nightly shelter operations and provide meals and connections to supportive services. Any unused funds must be returned to the city by March 31, 2026.

Council members and a series of public speakers — including John Baylor and Anne (last name given in transcript as Ann), representatives of Oxford Area Solutions for Housing (OSH), and other community volunteers — spoke in support of the measure. Speakers emphasized the collaborative nature of the shelter plan, noting that multiple faith communities and local nonprofits would contribute space, food, volunteers and case‑management connections.

Staff described the model as a congregate shelter staffed by paid coordinators and volunteers, with donated hotel rooms used for families with children when necessary. The program includes a reporting requirement detailing the number of individuals served, basic demographics, length of stay and services provided.

Council approved the resolution by unanimous voice vote. No amendment or additional conditions were recorded at the meeting.