Rep. Schmaltz backs grant to help families facing homelessness

State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz recently testified alongside Jackson Interfaith Shelter CEO Steve Castle in support of a proposed $1 million state grant to help the organization build a new shelter facility dedicated to families experiencing homelessness in the Jackson community.

Schmaltz, R-Jackson, made the funding request as part of the state budget process. It would support the construction of a separate, designated family shelter on property already owned by the Jackson Interfaith Shelter. The project will provide a safer, more tailored environment for parents and children as they work toward stability and independence.

“This shelter has been a lifeline in Jackson for half a century,” said Schmaltz, R-Jackson. “Now it’s time for us to step up and support their next chapter. Families who are facing tough times need a safe place to land, where they can heal, grow, and get back on their feet. This new facility will make sure children have a safer place to sleep and parents have access to wraparound services that meet their unique needs.”

Currently, single adults and families are housed under one roof, making it difficult to provide targeted care. The proposed project will build a separate shelter solely for families, allowing the current facility to transition into a shelter for single adults. The reconfiguration will create a more suitable and supportive environment for all shelter residents and increase the number of beds available for single women.

“At this point in our history, as we reach our 50-year mark, the need is to make sure there’s a separate designated space for families,” Castle said during his testimony. “That’s for safety, for targeted care, for the classes we can provide, for a shared kitchen space so we can work on cooking together. There are a host of other things that are going to be a lot better, safer, and more targeted for families in this space.”

Founded in 1974 after a man tragically froze to death on the streets of Jackson, the Jackson Interfaith Shelter has become a trusted place for individuals and families in crisis. Beyond emergency food and shelter, the organization provides case management, transitional housing, and three meals a day to anyone in need, regardless of whether they are currently staying at the shelter.

“This project is the next logical step for a shelter that has always risen to meet the needs of our community,” Schmaltz said. “We owe it to these families — many of whom are doing everything they can to overcome hardships — to make sure they have a place to call home while they rebuild their lives.”

The project also includes an overflow outbuilding for use during extreme weather events, ensuring no vulnerable Jackson resident is left without shelter during dangerous conditions. Partnerships with local organizations will continue to provide residents with access to 24/7 child care, job support, and housing services.

Schmaltz said she will continue advocating for the grant as lawmakers work to finalize the state budget in the coming weeks.