United Way of Jackson Pushes To Purchase Bible Institute Building For Homeless Resources
Ethnos360 Bible Institute has had roots in Jackson for almost half a century, now that the facilities are for sale, United Way wants to use the space to further serve the community in hopes of using the property for homeless housing.
The Institute's Roots In Jackson
According to MLive, the school located at 1210 E. Michigan Avenue in Downtown Jackson, was formerly known as New Tribes Mission "for most of its tenure in the city."
Originally, the institute planted its roots in Jackson in 1972 when the school's home base in Waukesha, Wisconsin needed more space. They have since expanded the original location and housing resources for faculty back in Wisconsin.
Now, the Jackson location of the institute is closing after many years, many renovations, 3,200 students over the last five decades, is closing up shop and is for sale for millions of dollars...
About The $7.5 Million Property
According to real estate site, LoopNet, the 111,000 square-foot "Specialty Building" is actually a whole lot more than just a building.
The property actually takes up an entire city block, right next door to Henry Ford Allegiance Health hospital which includes six city-certified, single-family homes as well as one "multi unit."
Of course, the school building itself is worth the investment too as it boasts an auditorium, gym, caffeteria, full kitchen, library and more.
That is exactly why it would be the perfect place for someone like United Way of Jackson to set up shop.
United Way's Plans For The Facilities
According to FOX 47 News, United Way of Jackson has seen other shelters around the country have found success with what is called the "Helping Hands model."
This model is one that United Way CEO Ken Toll told FOX 47 will "allow people struggling to use their housing as a one-stop shop.."
Not only will people who come receive shelter, they will also be given the tools and resources to get access to healthcare as well as behavior health and addiction resources and more.
While United Way is still working out getting their purchase agreement approved, FOX 47 reports they are still seeking community support, donors and those who wish to partner with the facility and use it as well.
Partners and groups like Welcome Home, Veterans who are looking to set up a shelter in Jackson and would be able to use a wing of the building for their resources as well.
All in all, while the project is yet to be "official" and has been met with some pushback from the community, this seems like something that will put all the resources Ethnos360 put in place to good use.
Despite a lot of plans that need to be worked out and finalized, Toll did tell FOX 47 he knows this shelter will be a bit different than other "barrier free" shelters.
"People will have to engage in programming to come into this shelter so, when you come in there will be an intake process," he said.
I know I am looking forward to seeing that building and property put to good use again like it was for the school!
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