We believe that safe, affordable housing and access to food are basic human rights. Our programs are aimed at making episodes of homelessness and food insecurity brief, rare, and one time only.
Emergency Shelter
Short-term, emergency shelter is provided while we stabilize clients and help them move into permanent housing with our Rapid Rehousing Program. Priority is given to Union County residents.
160 Meadow St., Monroe, NC 28110 | 704-289-5300
Rehousing
Rapid Rehousing quickly ends a person’s homelessness by helping them find and move into a home in their own community. We work with local landlords, property managers and owners to secure affordable housing options for emergency shelter residents. We financially assist with deposits, moving expenses, and short-to-medium-term rental assistance.
Our case managers stay with participants for up to 12 months post-housing to help navigate strategies to maintain housing.
Step It Up Bicycle Program
In Union County, where public transportation is nonexistent, reliable transportation is a lifeline to opportunity. At Step It Up, we strive to bridge this critical gap by collecting new or gently used bicycles for those in need. For many, these bicycles are more than just a mode of transport—they are a key to securing and sustaining employment, accessing essential services, and connecting with the community.
Each bicycle donation includes not only a bike but also a helmet, safety vest, and bike lock, ensuring our recipients can travel safely and securely. Your support can transform lives, providing the means for individuals to reach their full potential. Join us in making a difference, one pedal at a time. Donate a bike today and help us empower our community.
Food Services
The Soup Kitchen provides three meals a day, no certification needed. Located at the shelter. Volunteers provide and serve many of our meals.
Breakfast: 8-9 am
Lunch: Noon-1 pm
Supper: 6-7 pm
The Drive Thru Pantry takes place on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 4:30-5:30 pm., and is located at the shelter. Pantry items are donated by the community, and volunteers staff the drive thru pantry.
Senior Food Boxes are available to low-income residents, ages 60+, and are available for pick-up at the shelter. Food items are donated by Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.
Currently accepting applications for the waiting list by calling us at 980-220-9488.
Employment Lab
The Employment Lab helps shelter residents secure or improve income to quickly move out of economic and housing crisis. Activities include career counseling, GED programming, enhancing job search skills, application and resume writing, employer recruitment, and matching participants to available area jobs and/or education opportunities.
Many of these opportunities can be found in certification-based careers offered at our community college; careers such as Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, Cosmetology, Heating/AC, Welding, etc..
Home Again
The Home Again Program at the Community Shelter of Union County provides essential support to individuals and families transitioning into independent housing. By collecting and distributing new and gently used furniture, Home Again ensures that new housing units are fully furnished, creating a more welcoming and comfortable environment for those moving out of homelessness.
This program not only meets immediate needs but also contributes to a sense of stability and dignity for our clients as they begin their new chapter in permanent housing.
Ready to get involved?
Our Impact in the Community
-
stays in overnight emergency shelter per year
26,500+
-
individuals per year rehoused
116
-
meals provided per year by our Drive Thru Pantry
311,000
-
of rehousing participants have avoided repeat homelessness
83%
