Beyond Homeless now open to serve people in need

After two and a half years of going without a shelter in Greencastle, Beyond Homeless Incorporated (BHI) opened its doors at 309 E. Franklin St. earlier this week.

"Thanks to the tremendous support of countless individuals and organizations in Putnam County, BHI is now serving and accepting residents," Executive Director Tanis Monday said.

Originally known as the A-Way Home Shelter, the organization was forced to shut its doors in September 2011 due to a lack of funding.

However, since that time, a group of concerned citizens has kept the idea of a shelter in Greencastle alive. Over the past two years the non-profit organization Beyond Homeless was formed and is now eager to serve those in Putnam County who are in need.

The shelter provides emergency housing to homeless single women and women with children. BHI will also in the coming months provide offsite sleeping accommodations for men who are homeless.

Beyond Homeless assists individuals and families by providing education and assistance in obtaining needed services from other agencies.

Beyond Homeless has created a wish list of needed items that includes things such as cleaning supplies, pantry items and non-perishable food items, feminine personal care items, twin-size mattress pads and blankets, and crib sheets.

Beyond Homeless is also seeking individuals and organizations willing to sponsor dinners at the shelter. Some of the more pressing needs include funding to continue and support operating costs as well as dedicated volunteers to help with operations.

For more information on how to donate or get involved, persons may contact Executive Director Tanis Monday at 765-301-9263 or beyondhomelessincorporated@gmail.com.

Donations may be sent to P.O. Box 733 in Greencastle.

Also, persons are urged to refer anyone who may be homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Open office hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.