No, we are not a government agency. Cross Roads House is an independently run 501(c)(3) non-profit agency governed by a board of directors. Over $1 million of our operating budget comes from private donations. The remainder comes from a combination of local, state and federal government grants.
- Is Cross Roads House a government agency and how is the shelter funded?
- Do you have volunteer opportunities and if so how can I get involved?
Yes, we welcome volunteers! Most volunteers work in our kitchen either prepping, cooking, or serving dinner. Each month, we offer a one-hour volunteer orientation that includes a shelter tour, an overview of kitchen operations and volunteer expectations. Contact us to learn more.
- What is the best way to support the shelter?
The number one type of support we need is financial. More than $1 million of our operating revenue comes from private donations from individuals and businesses. Donations at all levels are greatly appreciated! Visit our Want to Help page to learn more.
- Can someone from Cross Roads House come to speak to my company/church/school/civic organization?
Yes! We welcome the opportunity to share information about the shelter. We can come to you, or groups are welcome to come to the shelter for a tour. Please contact us for more information.
- Do you accept furniture and used clothing?
No, but we can refer you to several other agencies nearby that do.
- How do you help beyond offering people food and a place to sleep?
Once someone becomes a resident at Cross Roads House, they have access to a vast array of supportive services and programs. Our staff case managers assess critical needs and help residents get the services they need. Case managers also help residents set goals and create a plan to return to stable housing.
- How long do residents typically stay at the shelter? Is there a time limit?
State regulations don’t allow a time limit. Last year we provided 37,560 bed nights of service to 364 individuals, including 27 families with 62 children. Our average length of stay for all residents was 103 days.
- What are the most significant factors contributing to a person becoming homeless?
People coming to the shelter have typically encountered a combination of problems that have led to their becoming homeless. The most common are: family issues, physical or mental illness, unemployment or insufficient wages, and substance use disorders. Almost everyone at the shelter struggles with the high cost of local rents.
- What is the best way to keep up to date on shelter activities, volunteer opportunities, and shelter needs?
Sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter, either on our website or by sending your name and email address to: info@crossroadshouse.org. We will never release your address to anyone else.
- What types of items can be donated?
We have a “wish list” on our website that includes all of the things that we need to help us run the shelter. Donors can also access our wish list on Amazon.com and order items that can be shipped directly to the shelter. In addition, we frequently post special needs in our e-newsletter, on Facebook, and Twitter. The items that we typically need most often are gift cards for gas and Walmart, personal care products, twin size sheets and blankets, bath towels, and food.
- When can I drop off a donation?
Any time! We are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
- Which types of gift cards are most needed?
Gift cards for gas stations, Walmart and Market Basket are in greatest demand.