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Dream Center pastor urges support as faith-based recovery center keeps doors open for 32 years
Summary
Pastor Matt Barnett told visiting HUD and HHS secretaries the Dream Center has provided round-the-clock recovery services for 32 years, relying on volunteers and private support while facing rising costs and inconsistent public funding.
Pastor Matt Barnett welcomed HUD Secretary Turner and HHS Secretary Bobby Kennedy to the Dream Center, describing a 400,000-square-foot facility that offers recovery programs, shelter and wraparound services 24 hours a day. Barnett said the center has operated for 32 years "room by room" to renovate the building given by local Catholic sisters and that about 70% of residents and 70% of staff are graduates of the recovery program.
Barnett said the Dream Center has weathered funding shortages and rising expenses by leaning on volunteers, private donors and the work of staff who in some years "maxed out our credit cards to make payroll." He urged federal officials to recognize results-oriented providers and said faith-based groups like his should be partners in efforts to address homelessness, recovery and long-term stabilization.
