Programs at the Volunteer Ministry Center

 

The Day Room

MelvinVMC operates a day room that is open to homeless persons seven days a week, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In 2003, the Day Room averaged 5,441 visits per month with an average of 100 individuals served each day. VMC employs two full-time Social Workers and a full-time Drug & Alcohol Counselor who are available to help guests with particular problems and help them create plans for a more successful future.

Those enrolled in the Self Sufficiency Program have access to the downstairs portion of the Shelter where they can avail themselves to the following services:

The Day Room is also home to our dining room where meals are served to the homeless. Volunteer meal groups purchase the food, prepare it in our kitchen and serve our guests. In 2003, volunteers served approximately 5,165 meals per month with a total of 61,984 meals being served. Volunteers gave a total of 13,255 hours of their time to operate this valuable program in 2003.

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The Refuge

The Refuge is VMC’s most community-oriented program. Open Monday through Friday and staffed entirely by volunteers, The Refuge sees clients individually by appointment. Services are aimed at helping the poor avoid homelessness. Emergency, one-time help with rent or utilities may be offered, as well as transportation to a job or referrals to other agencies to find assistance. Refuge volunteers saw approximately 3,857 individuals and gave 6,671 hours of service in 2003.

Molly and son

Molly’s Story

Six months ago, Molly and her three-year-old son were on the streets. Today, with the help of the Volunteer Ministry Center, they have an apartment. Molly has plans to train as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Her son is enrolled in pre-school. They are safe. They are together. They are building a new life.

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The Jackson Apartments

VMC operates 16 single-room occupancy units that are rent-subsidized by the local housing authority. These apartments are available for single, homeless men with some income, which is verified. When apartments become available for occupancy, people are referred from The Refuge or The Day Room.

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The People’s Clinic

Medical and dental care has been constantly recognized as an ongoing and under-met need of the poor and homeless. Staffed by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a part time Administrator as well as many volunteer professionals, The People’s Clinic is a true grass roots example of how every person can make a difference. In 2003, more than 700 individuals benefited from this service. The Dental Clinic continues to be an overwhelming success. Our dentist and his assistant volunteer one-half day a week and served more than 500 individuals in 2003.

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