COLUMBIA, SC: Rapid Shelter Columbia Celebrates Two Years of Impact
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as Rapid Shelter Columbia celebrates its second birthday! This fantastic facility, located on Calhoun Street, has become a vital resource for individuals experiencing homelessness, helping them move towards permanent housing and self-sufficiency. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude during the recent celebration, where staff, residents, and city leaders came together to reflect on the journey of the shelter.
A Moment of Gratitude
One of the most touching moments came from former resident Matt Kummer, who now has a permanent home thanks to the support he received at Rapid Shelter. “I can’t express to you what a great feeling it was to have a key and have a Pallet house. I hadn’t had my own home in so long and there was a power in that. It was something I could call mine,” said Kummer. His emotional words resonated with many, showcasing the profound impact that having a home can have on one’s life.
Celebrating Successes
The event was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a recognition of the collaborative efforts that have driven positive changes in the community. Awards were presented to local partners who have worked tirelessly alongside Rapid Shelter to break down barriers and provide support to those in need. Councilwoman Dr. Aditi Bussells expressed her pride in the progress made over the past two years, highlighting an important milestone. “As of today, we have permanently housed 71 individuals, and I’m very proud of that number,” said Bussells, emphasizing the collective efforts involved in this journey.
Hands-On Change
During the celebration, it was clear that stories of hope and transformation are what make Rapid Shelter truly special. Jalen Loney, a dedicated Case Manager at the facility, shared insights into the heart of their work. “It’s more of a mental connection because we see the drug abuse, we see the mental traumas going on firsthand. I see it every day. One phone call can change a person’s life,” Loney expressed. For him and his colleagues, success often hinges on the readiness of individuals to embrace change, but they remain committed to being there for those who are willing to take that step.
Resources for Residents
Rapid Shelter Columbia doesn’t just provide a roof over one’s head; it offers an array of indispensable resources aimed at fostering personal growth. Among the services available to residents are addiction counseling, therapy, and housing placement assistance. Each of these services plays a critical role in helping individuals navigate their unique challenges and achieve their goals.
How to Make a Referral
For anyone looking to connect those in need with Rapid Shelter Columbia, the process starts with outreach. The first step is to contact an outreach team member from any partner agency, such as MIRCI, Transitions, PRISMA Health, or USC Supportive Housing. If direct contact isn’t possible, individuals can reach out to Nyasia Franklin, the City of Columbia’s Homeless Services Project Manager, for assistance. Ms. Franklin can be reached at (803)545-3476 or via email.
Looking Ahead
As Rapid Shelter Columbia celebrates its birthday, the future looks bright, filled with opportunities for growth and positive change. With support from the community and the dedication of its staff, the shelter is set to continue making a significant impact on the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness in Columbia. The event was a beautiful reminder of the power of community, collaboration, and commitment to helping others.
Here’s to another year of hope and change at Rapid Shelter Columbia!
