I spoke to some kids at a VBS a month or so ago and I asked them what it would be like to be without a place to stay at night. Have you ever thought about what it would be like? Unfortunately, homelessness is a real and growing problem here in Columbus. Many people are hurting, and evictions are up – which causes homelessness to rise.

Brighter Days is a temporary homeless shelter operated by Love Chapel in a building owned by the Columbus Township Trustee. Unfortunately, the numbers are rapidly rising at the shelter. During the month of August, we have exceeded 30 clients in what is customarily the slowest time of the year. During the winter months, we often climb by 10 – 15 people, so it is quite possible that we will be pushing the 50 capacity this winter.

So how does Brighter Days operate? First, the shelter opens at 6 PM and guests can come in, anytime between 6 PM and 9 PM, When they enter, they go through a quick search of person and property, receive a bedroll with their needed linens, and any personal hygiene items needed. Shower and bathroom facilities are available. Individuals who are not staying at the shelter can also come in for a shower and hygiene.

Clients remain in their respective dorms (men’s or women’s) until they leave. All clients leave by 8:00 AM. Breakfast items and coffee are available for them upon departure and a sack lunch is also sent with them. Clients are encouraged to attend the nightly Hot Meal site.

More importantly, Case Managers are available nightly to design a program to obtain permanent housing. Case Managers work with clients on job searches, budgeting, finding permanent housing, and referrals for other needed services are provided. A client is initially given 60 days to stay, but if they are progressing towards getting re-housed, extensions can be given. Some get housed, and unfortunately some do not.

We do offer a time from November to March, where individuals can stay, whether actively seeking housing – this is called Winter Contingency. It allows anyone to stay during the coldest months of the year.

If you would like to volunteer to help at the shelter, we have daily needs for volunteers. It is rewarding and you truly are helping to love your neighbor, by helping to provide shelter for them. For more information on volunteering, please email George, our Volunteer Recruiter at volrecruiter@columbuslovechapel.com. If volunteering is not an option, you can support the work of love chapel through a donation at our website at columbuslovechapel.com.