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County intends to award day‑shelter contract to Urban Ministries to pilot expanded services
Summary
Durham County staff intend to award Urban Ministries of Durham a one‑year, $350,000 contract to operate a low‑barrier day shelter and services hub in a known UMD location; the pilot will provide daytime shelter, showers, laundry, mail, charging, internet and case management with partner referrals.
Durham County staff recommended a pilot day‑shelter and service hub to provide low‑barrier daytime sheltering and service navigation for people experiencing homelessness.
Staff said the RFP required a low‑barrier space that shelters people from the elements and provides dignity services such as showers, laundry, mail, device charging and Internet access, plus case management and housing navigation. The county received one responsive proposal from Urban Ministries of Durham (UMD), which proposed to use existing space at 410 Liberty Street — a location familiar to many unsheltered neighbors and co‑located with UMD’s clothing closet and food pantry.
Under the intended award, UMD would operate the day center, provide on‑site services and partner with other agencies for additional case management and housing navigation supports. The county proposes a $350,000 contract for the 12‑month pilot with a planned start after contract execution; staff said the full contract scope and measurable outcomes will be brought to the board for formal approval in the coming weeks.
Staff emphasized partnerships and data collection: the proposal includes memoranda of understanding with outreach teams and a plan to track participant outcomes via the Homeless Management Information System where possible. Commissioners praised the selection and asked staff to ensure strong outreach, clear data measures and broad coordination with HSAC and other partners.
Next steps: county staff will bring the full contract to the board in 4–6 weeks and begin the pilot after contracting and operational planning.
