The Emergency Shelter Mission Statement:

We exist to help our shelter guests take their next step toward a more whole and independent lifestyle. We seek to do so by providing those in our shelter with relationships and resources so they may be gainfully employed and plan to exit the shelter into stable housing situation.

The shelter is located at 320 W. Oakland Avenue. It opens at 6:00 PM and closes at 7:00 AM the following morning. New shelter guests can enter before 9:30 PM without a police escort, or must obtain a police escort if after that time. All shelter guests receive a meal at 7:00 PM and have access to amenities such as laundry washing and drying machines and showers.

The Emergency Shelter minimizes the physical impact of homelessness by providing rest and nourishment. The Shelter partners with local Sumter County churches to initiate and facilitate healing and restoration, enabling residents to glorify God by leading productive and independent lives.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Provide a meal for the shelter at 6:45 – Sign up on Lots of Helping Hands
• Train to supervise shelter guests – call the ministry for details 803-775-0024 or email shelter@sumterunitedministries.org

Sign up on the Lotsa Helping Hands website