Homeless shelter

Meeting the needs of the homeless in Cape Girardeau has taken a step in a positive direction with the formation of Shelter of Hope, a facility that will offer temporary accommodations for those in need. This effort has several things in its favor:n The project is scaled to the community's need. The shelter will house as many as eight homeless individuals at one time.

* There is broad community support for the Shelter of Hope, which already has commitments from churches and individuals and the use of a building rent-free for a year, thanks to Alliance Bank.

* The shelter is in a good location on Sprigg Street across from the Salvation Army

* Shelter of Hope is the product of local leadership that has considerable experience in dealing with homeless issues over the years.

As the minister of one downtown church said: "This is something we have prayed about for a long, long time. Now we are doing something."

The shelter will need the community's ongoing support. Anyone interested in helping out may contact the Rev. Bob Towner (335-2997), Brother David McNeely (579-8121) or Chaplain Terry Wildman (339-7882). Alliance Bank, 217 N. Kingshighway, will accept donations.