When local organizations work together, they create a powerful network of helping community members gain access to the resources they need. In Galesburg, these collaborations have strengthened support for those experiencing homelessness and housing instability.
Convened in 2021 by Galesburg Community Foundation, the Hunger Collaborative is a group of individuals and leaders from more than 30 local nonprofits, both directly and indirectly involved in food assistance. The Hunger Collaborative is working to develop strategies to reduce hunger by addressing its root causes. In addition to direct, immediate need for food, the Hunger Collaborative has identified four priority root causes of hunger: access to and awareness of services, workforce and skills readiness, housing and homelessness, and transportation.
With funding from the Hunger Collaborative, the Knox County Housing Authority (KCHA) and the Salvation Army have transformed their warming shelter into a year-round, overnight facility. By providing consistent shelter year-round, these organizations aim to enhance the physical well-being of unhoused individuals and assist them in securing permanent housing.
The year-round shelter offers a safe place for unhoused individuals to sleep, and its staff works diligently to connect them with necessary resources. Jordan Belville, the shelter manager, explains, “We bring them in, learn their backstory, understand why they are here, and identify the resources they need. I then reach out to partners like Bridgeway for mental health services and the Salvation Army to help them obtain an ID and access other resources.”
Jordan emphasizes that the shelter serves as a crucial entry point, where individuals can begin receiving the assistance they need. “We collaborate with other KCHA staff to help connect shelter residents with permanent housing.”
The shelter is low-barrier, welcoming help to those who need it. “If someone needs somewhere to go, we open our arms and allow them to come and get the help they need, in a place that is safe,” continued Belville.
To learn more about the Hunger Collaborative visit yourgcf.org/hungercollaborative.
