Immerse Arkansas plans Little Rock shelter for young adults; 1st of kind in state, nonprofit says
A nonprofit organization plans to build a new shelter for people ages 18 to 24.
The Station -- a 7,265 square-foot structure -- will be located at 3201 Mary St. in Little Rock, and will be the first shelter of its kind in the state, according to Immerse Arkansas. Contractors for Immerse Arkansas launched the demolition process of an older structure on Wednesday.
The completed facility will have a 16-person capacity with goals to "be a safe place for young people 18-24 experiencing homelessness and other traumas," Immerse Arkansas officials said.
Individuals at The Station will have access to a private bedroom and bathroom, a shared kitchen, recreation space, rooms for counseling and outdoor areas.
Executive Director Eric Gilmore says the goal is to have a community-like experience in the shelter with shared living spaces, ample privacy and garden and backyard access, as well as time and space for family visits and activities.
Gilmore also acknowledged the importance of providing more resources than just room and food -- which is why The Station will have on-site licensed therapists for individuals to speak with during their stay at the shelter.
A special note to our youth - You are the real story here.
Keep up the great work, keep pressing on, and keep overcoming. All of Arkansas wants you to succeed, and so many people are on your side and cheering for you!