Rapid Shelter Columbia Celebrates Two Years of Transformative Support
COLUMBIA, SC — What a milestone it was! Rapid Shelter Columbia recently celebrated its second birthday, marking a significant achievement in its mission to aid those experiencing homelessness. With the support of city leaders and community members, staff and residents gathered at the Calhoun street location to reflect on the impact of the shelter over the past two years.
A Journey Towards Home
One of the most touching moments of the celebration came from former resident Matt Kummer. Now living in a permanent home, Kummer shared his heartfelt story. “I can’t express to you what a great feeling it was to have a key and have a Pallet house. I hadn’t had my own home in so long and there was a power in that. It was something I could call mine; it was really a very touching and moving experience for me,” he recounted to the audience.
Recognizing Community Efforts
The ceremony also highlighted the incredible work done by community partners. Awards were handed out in appreciation of their dedication to overcoming barriers and fostering positive changes for those in need. Councilwoman Dr. Aditi Bussells took a moment to reflect on their achievements. “It was really wonderful to see people come together and really reflect on how much progress we’ve made the last two years,” she said proudly. She also noted an impressive accomplishment: “As of today, we have permanently housed 71 individuals, and I’m very proud of that number.”
A Day in the Life at Rapid Shelter Columbia
Among the dedicated staff is Case Manager Jalen Loney, who was late to the celebration because he was busy helping a resident with a lease. His work exemplifies the shelter’s approach: “It’s more of a mental connection because we see the drug abuse, we see the mental traumas going on firsthand. I see it every day. I answer the phone, and one phone call can change a person’s life,” Loney shared. He emphasizes the importance of being ready to change, stating, “Sometimes we can’t change everyone unless they’re ready, so when they’re ready, we have open arms and help them on their way.”
Resources for Those in Need
The shelter offers a plethora of resources and services to its 50 residents, including addiction counseling, therapy, and housing placement. It’s heartening to know that the community is rallying around those who need it the most. If someone is looking for assistance or has a need to connect with Rapid Shelter Columbia, the referral process can begin through outreach teams at various provider agencies like MIRCI, Transitions, or PRISMA Health.
How to Reach Out
Anyone needing outreach assistance can reach out directly. The City of Columbia’s contracted Outreach Team is available for support. You can contact Lead Outreach Specialist Alycia Roach at 803-467-0411 or Evening Outreach Specialist Larry Benjamin at 803-363-4581. Additionally, if reaching an outreach provider is challenging, you can get in touch with Nyasia Franklin, the City of Columbia Homeless Services Project Manager, at (803)545-3476 or by email.
Looking Ahead
As Rapid Shelter Columbia moves forward, it remains committed to its mission of helping individuals move from homelessness to self-sufficiency. The second birthday celebration not only commemorated past successes but also reinvigorated the community’s promise to support all its members. With hearts full of hope and hands ready to help, the journey continues, and the impact will undoubtedly resonate throughout Columbia.
