For 18 years, Shelters By Jesus, Inc has been a physical and spiritual safe haven for our community's most vulnerable. We have provided warm beds, hot meals, and a supportive Jesus loving environment out of our church building. But today, our doors are in real danger of closing.

In January 2026, the town informed us that our current building no longer meets updated zoning and fire safety codes—specifically, we lack a fire suppression system. While we explored every avenue to retrofit our historic building, contractors have confirmed that bringing the old structure up to code is financially and structurally unfeasible.

We cannot let our unhoused neighbors be left out in the cold. So, we are building a new home.

We are raising $366,728 to construct a brand-new, fully code-compliant incredible space efficient shelter facility. This single steel

building ($141,728.81) will feature state-of-the-art fire safety systems, proper zoning approvals, and an optimized layout that will allow us to serve a large amount of guests safely and effectively for decades to come.

Quotes we've received for interior build were as follows for

Low: $448,500

High: $718,750

Our: $225,000 - we believe we can achieve this number with the help of contractors and suppliers donating their time and materials.

Why we need your help:

We aren't just trying to put a band-aid on an old problem; we are building a permanent solution. Your donation will go directly toward the construction, permitting, and outfitting of this new facility.

No matter your faith or background, if you believe that everyone deserves a safe, warm place to sleep and have a chance to get back on their feet, please consider making a donation today.

Donate: Every dollar brings us one brick closer to our goal.

Share: Please share this campaign with your friends, family, and local community groups. Word of mouth is our most powerful tool.

Thank you for your generosity, your compassion, and for believing in a ministry where no one is left behind.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why are you building a new facility instead of fixing the current church?

While our historic church building has served us beautifully for years, it lacks a modern fire suppression system and no longer meets the town's updated zoning and fire safety codes. After consulting with multiple contractors, we learned that retrofitting the old structure to meet these strict codes is not only financially prohibitive but, in some ways, structurally impossible. Building a new facility is the most responsible, permanent, and safe solution for our guests.

What will the new shelter look like?

We have already started the architectural planning process! The new facility will be a 150' x 40' purpose-built shelter designed specifically for safety and community. It will feature:

22 Private Family Rooms: Providing dignity and privacy for the families and individuals we serve.

A 17-Foot Central Hub: This main entryway will serve as the heart of the shelter, featuring a kitchen, dining area, and lounge space.

Dedicated Family Washrooms: Single-occupant, private washrooms for safety and comfort.

State-of-the-Art Safety: Most importantly, it will have a fully code-compliant fire suppression system and multiple clearly marked exits.

Where will the new building be located?

The new facility will be constructed right here on our current church property, allowing us to maintain our roots in the neighborhood while satisfying all town zoning requirements.

What happens to the current shelter guests while you build?

We are working closely with town officials to ensure a smooth transition. Because we are actively taking steps to build a code-compliant facility, we are working to secure a temporary grace period to keep our current doors open. We will not leave our neighbors out in the cold.

How will the funds be used?

100% of the funds raised will go directly toward the capital project. This includes land prep, pouring the foundation, erecting the metal building, installing the fire suppression systems, and outfitting the interior rooms and kitchen hub.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes! Because Shelters By Jesus, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, your contribution is 100% tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. GoFundMe will automatically issue a receipt for your records.