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Topeka partners preview 'Compassion Impact Center' and low‑barrier shelter pilot to coordinate services for chronically homeless
Summary
United Way, Topeka Rescue Mission, MAP and city and county partners previewed a Compassion Impact Center at the Topeka Rescue Mission and outlined a one‑stop model, a low‑barrier 'safe rest' shelter concept and related outreach to reduce chronic homelessness; organizers requested support for facility hosting, program staffing and facility upgrades.
A coalition of nonprofits and local governments previewed a coordinated plan to expand services for people experiencing chronic homelessness and announced a same‑day press event to open a Compassion Impact Center at the Topeka Rescue Mission Children’s Palace.
Barry Feer, a lead organizer with the All Hands on Deck campaign, told Shawnee County commissioners on March 2 that the community has moved from knowing about homelessness to developing a coordinated plan that "does whatever it takes" to reduce chronic unsheltered homelessness. Feer said the project prioritizes a one‑stop resource center to centralize IDs, case management, medical and mental‑health connections and job supports.
Brett Martin of the United Way said local analysis shows high costs tied to unsheltered chronic homelessness: "we're talking about a cost of $36,000 per individual annually to a community," he said, and warned that an aging…
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