27 January 2011

The Salvation Army NW Division announced today that it will open a temporary homeless shelter in Bremerton, WA, on Monday, January 31. The Shelter will be housed in the former Bremerton Municipal Court building at 900 Pacific Avenue.

The project was originally conceived as a Tent City, but has evolved into an indoor shelter. The building has capacity to house 17 families, including private living spaces, bathrooms, and a community kitchenette. The building has been vacant for less than one year, and requires minimal updates to accommodate residents. The Salvation Army is working to increase the hot water capacity, and purchasing used appliances for the Shelter.

Major James Baker of The Bremerton Corps of The Salvation Army is managing the project and its budget of $90,000. Expenses of the project include construction renovations, utilities, and paid on-site staff. Donations are welcome and can be made at www.salvationarmynw.org.

"Our goal is to temporarily house Bremerton families in a warm, safe environment, and the Municipal Court Building is the ideal location for this program," said Major Baker. "We are pleased that the city and residents of Bremerton support this project so strongly."

Applications are currently being accepted for residency in the Shelter. To qualify, a family must have one or two parents, at least one child, be currently located in the Bremerton area, but not have a permanent home. Also, no members of the family can have a history of violent crime conviction, sex offense, or currently using drugs or alcohol.

Furthermore, the family must be willing to cooperate with a case manager to develop a plan to achieve independence. The program includes an analysis of the issues that led to the family's homelessness, and the potential for success in permanent housing. Applications are available at Kitsap Community Resources, 1201 Park Avenue; 8am - 4:30pm.

The Salvation Army Bremerton Corps provides services to needy members of the community since 1920. In 2010, more than 11,000 people were helped by the Bremerton Corps. Free breakfast and lunch is offered daily; monthly food boxes are available to those who qualify, and may include government food commodities, diapers, and toiletries. Special programs include utility bill assistance, free haircuts, and community voicemail. Holiday programs include holiday meals, food baskets, and toy donations. For details about The Salvation Army programs in Bremerton, please visit www.salvationarmynw.org/bremerto n.