Rapid Shelter Columbia Celebrates Two Years of Impact and Community Support

COLUMBIA, SC — Celebrating Community and Change at Rapid Shelter Columbia’s 2nd Birthday!

Hey there, Columbia! There was a heartwarming celebration recently as Rapid Shelter Columbia marked its 2nd birthday at its Calhoun Street location. Local leaders and residents gathered to celebrate the journey and the incredible impact this shelter has had on the community. This remarkable center continues to be a beacon of hope, assisting individuals who are unhoused to find their footing and secure permanent homes.

A Personal Touch: Stories of Change

One of the event’s highlights was hearing from former resident, Matt Kummer, who now proudly calls a permanent residence his home. With emotion clearly evident, Kummer shared, “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.”

What a touching reminder of the power of community support! And he’s not alone. In just two years, Rapid Shelter Columbia has helped numerous individuals just like Matt, offering them a chance for a fresh start.

Acknowledging Collaborative Efforts

During the celebration, awards were distributed to valued community partners who have worked hand-in-hand with the shelter. Councilwoman Dr. Aditi Bussells expressed her pride in the initiative, stating, “It was really wonderful to see people come together and really reflect on how much progress we’ve made the last two years. I shared today that as of today, one of our employees was actually late to the celebration because he was helping a resident sign a lease. We have permanently housed 71 individuals and I’m very proud of that number!”

This progress is no small feat and highlights the strong bond between the shelter and the community. Each success story echoes the fact that change is possible, especially when you have support and a dedicated team behind you!

On the Ground: A Team Ready to Help

Speaking of the team, the case manager, Jalen Loney, offered valuable insights during the event about the shelter’s services. “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. One phone call can change a person’s life,” he remarked. His words remind us that while resources are essential, the real change often comes from within.

He continued, “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.” What a beautiful sentiment! It emphasizes the shelter’s commitment to not just providing a roof over heads, but also nurturing the emotional well-being of its residents.

How to Get Involved

Interested in learning more about Rapid Shelter Columbia or thinking of making a referral? The process is simple! The first step is to connect with an outreach team member at provider agencies such as MIRCI, Transitions, PRISMA Health, or USC Supportive Housing. But if you have trouble reaching someone, don’t hesitate to reach out to the city’s contracted Outreach Team.

For unsheltered needs, you can contact:

• Alycia Roach, Lead Outreach Specialist: 803-467-0411
• Larry Benjamin, Evening Outreach Specialist: 803-363-4581
• Nyasia Franklin, City of Columbia Homeless Services Project Manager: (803)545-3476 | Nyasia.Franklin@columbiasc.gov

As we celebrate the achievements of Rapid Shelter Columbia, let it inspire all of us to embrace community spirit and lend a helping hand where we can. Here’s to many more birthdays filled with hope, change, and a commitment to knocking down barriers for those in need!