Bloomington Expands Indoor Shelter Options for the Homeless

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. –  As winter approaches, Bloomington is taking important steps to expand access to indoor shelters for its homeless population.

This initiative is a coordinated effort between the city and community partners like Eastview Church, which has pledged $50,000 to help cover the costs of beds, cots, staffing and other necessary resources. This partnership aims to provide safe and warm spaces for those who need them most during the colder months.

The expansion of indoor shelter options involves waiving some city building codes to accommodate more people in existing facilities. The city has asked organizations like the Salvation Army to install additional alarms, add staff, provide training on fire safety, and ensure that exits are clear.

During the transitional period, tent encampments will be phased out, and indoor facilities will open their doors under specific weather conditions.

“We open our doors when it goes below a certain temperature to let people come inside,” says Deborah Cole of the Salvation Army. “It would be first come, first served. The city is saying now that we are allowed to place cots in the cafeteria. Those who come in will have access to the same services as everyone else, such as case management, showers, and meals. “Cots will be placed down and people will be able to stay overnight. And then in the morning, the cots will be stored,” Cole adds.

This initiative is a community-driven response to provide safety and warmth to those in need in Bloomington.