A group of residents led by local clergy and others – Segue Racine -have a building they will rehabilitate into an overnight emergency shelter.
It is expected to open this summer and will operate from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily.
Located at 961 Martin Luther King, Dr., the building has been home to a number of businesses since it was completed in 1900, most recently a tavern. The building was donated by Terry and Gloria Pogofsky of Glenview, IL. In a press release from Segue, the group thanked Racine Mayor John Dickert and County Executive Jonathan Delagrave.
“We are grateful to Racine Mayor John Dickert and County Executive Jonathan Delagrave for their assistance and support,” the statement reads.
Leaders recognize there might be some push-back from the community because the shelter is located across from an elementary school, but they want to assure residents they will not accept registered sex offenders and doors will be closed before the school day begins.
“The shelter will be a safe and welcoming place to sleep and shower; it will comply with all municipal ordinances,” the statement continues.
Initially, the shelter will have the ability to house 30-35 individuals, but they might be able to accommodate more if temperatures indicate a need. Segue will work closely with the Hopes Center, HALO and the Hospitality Center to help find shelter for those in need.
“We hope to be a catch-all for everybody we’re legally allowed to take,” Pastor Holly Anderle said.
Rehabbing the building will commence in the couple of weeks, but fundraising is already underway.
If anyone is interested in donating to Segue Racine for the shelter, they can send monetary gifts to Segue Racine, Inc., 3117 Lathrop Ave., Racine, WI 53405. Anyone interested in donating goods and/or volunteering should send an email to segueracine@gmail.com.