by Carol Cowdrey
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Shalom House, a transitional living program for men experiencing homelessness, now has a tangible reminder of God’s infinite love and mercy. Archbishop Shawn McKnight gifted to the ministry a powerful image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus during his tour of the facility.
“I pray that this image will remind residents to invite Jesus to reign in their hearts and remember that he is with them always,” he said.
Operated by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas since 2008, Shalom House has undergone significant changes since its early days as an emergency refuge. Men no longer come directly off the streets for a few days’ stay. Instead, they are referred through a variety of community partners and parishes. Currently, their stay averages 158 days, reflecting a deeper, more sustained investment in each man’s journey.
“The revamped Shalom House program was built on a simple but powerful belief: that men experiencing homelessness deserve more than temporary shelter,” explained Tenesha Williams, Shalom House program director. “They deserve the tools, support and dignity to build a lasting foundation for their lives.”
Since relocating to the former Sanctuary of Hope facility in Kansas City, Kansas, and relaunching the program a few years ago, Shalom has served 91 men. The program goes beyond providing a bed, shower and hot meal. Shalom House provides an integrated model of care that addresses housing, employment, financial wellness and personal development, all under one roof.
“My first impression was this is not like a typical homeless shelter,” said a Shalom House member. “You got one- or two-man rooms, not a 50-man and one space. Not stacked on top of each other, though. You don’t got to worry about your shoes missing in the morning or anything like that. You got a case manager, job resources, financial resources to help you.”
Financial coaching and job skills training are among the critical tools provided as part of Shalom’s long-term programming. Shortly after entering Shalom House, the men are enrolled in Catholic Charities’ Workforce Development and Financial Empowerment programs.
Iona Peavy, on-site Workforce Development specialist, meets with the men one-on-one weekly to help identify part-time, full-time and supplemental jobs. She guides them through the application and interview process.
“I help them find positions that match their passions,” she said.
Sometimes the men just need someone to walk alongside them.
“A lot of the men have fears of having failed in life,” said Peavy, “and securing a job helps them overcome some of those fears. It’s empowering to have your own income.”
In turn, it’s rewarding for her to see the excitement in the men when they follow the program and it results in employment.
“Their whole demeanor changes and they say, ‘It really can happen for me,’” she said.
For members like Tyler, this support and guidance has been life-changing. When he came to Shalom House, he was unemployed and facing an eviction for unpaid rent and utilities. Like the majority of the men who enter Shalom, he had no bank account or savings.
“Financial instability is both a cause and consequence of homelessness,” Williams said. “Shalom House addresses this directly.”
Tyler found a new job and used his first few paychecks to open a bank account and establish an emergency fund.
“Nearly all residents, over 90 percent, open bank accounts during their stay, a foundational step toward financial independence that many have never had before,” said Williams.
After six months of dedicated savings, Tyler purchased a dependable vehicle so that he didn’t have to rely on a family member for transportation to and from work. Also, thanks to a Match Savings program for Shalom House members funded by the Hall Family Foundation, he saved enough to pay off his eviction debt and utility collection, important steps to finding permanent housing.
Now, as Tyler prepares for his next chapter in a new home, he faces it with a renewed sense of hope as he continues along his path towards financial stability.
“I feel really good about what’s ahead,” he said proudly.
“The strength of the Shalom House model in providing financial and job coaching is that we’re not just offering guys a place to stay, we’re not just helping them get the income that they need, but we’re giving them the tools to maintain long-term stability,” explained Shalom House asset development manager, Isaac Harrell.
After learning more about Shalom House and its profound impact on the lives of those who come through its doors, Archbishop McKnight had this to say.
“I was impressed and edified by the wonderful care and opportunities available to empower men to realize their true dignity and regain a fruitful life of peace and purpose.”
Volunteer opportunities at Shalom House
Lawn care volunteer – Help maintain the exterior grounds at Shalom House by mowing the lawn on a consistent bi-weekly schedule now through October. Equipment is provided on-site, so all you need to bring is your time and willingness to serve one to two hours per visit. Volunteers must be 18 years or older.
Dinner ministry – Prepare a meal for the members of Shalom House. Slots are available Monday-Friday, and food must be dropped off between 5-5:30 pm. Volunteers are welcome to cook onsite and stay and serve the meal and enjoy fellowship with the men. Volunteers must be 18 years or older. Children cannot come to the property, even if accompanied by an adult.
Workforce program – Support Shalom House members one to two hours per week who are preparing for their GED exams or lead sessions that prepare participants for the workplace by guiding them through resume building, interview practice, job searching and workplace expectations. Volunteers must be 21 or older.
For more information, email: ccnekvolunteers@catholiccharitiesks.org.
