Temporary Bis-Man Shelter Should Open Within Days

A stopgap homeless shelter may be open in Bismarck as early as Monday.The Bismarck Tribune reports a local church has offered to provide space for the temporary shelter to house the homeless until local organizations can find a permanent replacement for the now-defunct Ruth Meiers Hospitality House.

The identity of the church is being withheld, pending finalization.

United Way Executive Director Jena Gullo says the emergency overnight shelter should be open very shortly. In the meantime, local organizations are working on finding and opening a more permanent facility in the area.

Ms. Gullo says the United Way is working with local law enforcement and other area organizations to ensure that the homeless in Bismarck and Mandan don't fall through the cracks in the meantime.

Volunteers as well as donations of clothing and sanitary items will be needed for the temporary shelter. Contact the Missouri Slope United Way for more information.

[Sources: Missouri Slope United Way, Bismarck Tribune}