Pastor James West is the executive director of Repairers of the Breach, a non-profit daytime refuge for those who are homeless.
Things have changed inside the organization’s building due to COVID-19, chairs are spaced farther apart, surfaces are wiped down frequently and visitors are wearing face masks, but despite all the changes, their mission remains the same, to offer life-restoring services.
“We are still giving people who are homeless a place to take a load off and rest and still feeding and giving showers and allowing people to use the phone all while social distancing,” said Pastor West.
The organization still sees about 100 homeless men and women entering their doors and costs are adding up and supplies are depleting.
“We have someone just to wipe down the showers when everyone gets out," said Pastor West. "It get expensive and who could budget for this? We are paying overtime, giving bonuses to the staff and making sure that they are not neglecting their family by serving someone else."
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The organization is in need of cleaning supplies for their showers, masks, gloves and laundry detergent.
For many like Dan Jones, the organization is a lifeline. He has been homeless for 18 months. He said he is thankful the non-profit is still open, while others are not.
“I can’t show enough gratitude for what they have done for me because I’ve been homeless, but I’m glad they are here for me,” said Jones.
While people are staying home, Pastor West said it’s his mission to continue to make sure all people are taken care of.
“This is what I signed up for," he said. "I can’t be at home quarantining in my nice home knowing people are suffering. If we all can do what we can do, we can make this happen and beat coronavirus."
West said the only way to get through this is through community support. He is asking if any companies or people know of any grants for non-profit programs to contact him.
Donations are accepted Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. at 1335 W. Vliet Street in Milwaukee.
Call the center at 414-342-9323, or email brandik@repairers.org to coordinate group donation drives or to inquire about making larger donations of furniture or housewares.
Click here to see the items they need.
The Breach Café serves lunch six days a week (about 100 meals a day) to poor individuals in the community, in which the majority are homeless. For more information regarding donations to the Breach Café, please call 414-342-9323.