WS Chronicle

Family Services, Inc. (FSI) is asking the City of Winston-Salem for $1.5 million to help replace its aging emergency shelter that serves victims and survivors of domestic violence. Representatives from the nonprofit attended a recent meeting where members of the city council listened to their proposal.  

The shelter currently operated by Family Services, Inc. was built in 1929 and has operated as an emergency shelter since 1988. The shelter can serve up to 36 people at a time in traditional dorm-style rooms with hall bathrooms and one shared kitchen. This is referred to as “congregate shelter.” 

Family Services says they have recently seen an unprecedented increase in requests for shelter, and they are currently operating at capacity and determined that a non-congregate shelter with private rooms would be more appropriate. 

The needs of victims of domestic violence have also changed with the increase in numbers. More families are showing up to the shelter, according to FSI. And as you would expect with a building that was built nearly 100 years ago, there have been ongoing maintenance issues.  

The plan is to demolish the existing shelter and construct a new 30,000 sq. ft. shelter that will double the current capacity and serve guests in immediate crisis for up to 90 days. The facility will also include a bridge housing model where guests could stay up to six months. Architectural designs will be trauma-informed with the goal of creating physical spaces that promote safety, well-being and healing.  

The total cost of the project is $10,834,500.  

Family Services is requesting that the City use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to help with the project. The City received $4.8 million in HOME, which can be used for non-congregate shelters, rental housing, tenant based rental assistance, and supportive services.  

According to Family Service Executive Director Michelle Speas, they have also started a funding campaign to help with the cost of construction.  

“We are currently in a community capital campaign. The goal is $10.8 million and we’ve raised over 50% of that amount,” Speas said.  

When it came time to vote on the matter, it was approved unanimously. Councilmember Annette Scippio was excused from voting as she is a member of the Family Services Board of Directors. Mayor Pro Temp Denise Adams said the new shelter is needed to meet the demands of the community. She also thanked Family Service for their dedication to helping those in need.  

“The clients that you serve they need this,” Adams said. “We saw what happened during the pandemic. We began to see mental illness, domestic violence, homicides, and suicides go up. So we thank you for your service.”