The Turlock Gospel Mission broke ground on their long-awaited year-round emergency homeless shelter Wednesday, step one of the organization's “Hope Lives Here” campaign.
The building will be located at 437 S. Broadway on land that was purchased by TGM more than two years ago.
This first step will build dorms with 55 beds for men, women and children, along with restrooms with showers and a laundry room.
The goal is to have phase one completed by October 2014, just in time to provide shelter for the cold winter season.
“We hope that the first step will be done in October,” TGM Executive Director Tim Guerino said. “Men’s, women’s and children’s dorms will be done. Showers, bathrooms, laundry rooms will be done.”
Step one of the project is estimated to cost about $500,000. TGM is currently about $65,000 short of this goal, but has faith they will reach it.
The total cost of the project is estimated at nearly $1.8 million. The finished building will feature a full kitchen and dining area, as well as reception and storage. This cost also includes the first year’s operation costs, Guerino said.
All money for the shelter is coming through private donations from corporations, churches and individuals.
“It comes from a church effort, a corporation effort, foundations or individuals. It’s a conglomerate of everyone,” Guerino said. “This is truly the house the Lord built, but He built it through His people.”
Construction of the shelter is being done by Torre Reich Construction Inc., of Turlock.
