After the Covid-19 crisis, Americans all over the country lost their jobs, homes, and livelihood. Homeless shelters were filled to the brim with people who needed a safe haven. Shelters for the needy have always been a necessity, but Corona Virus emphasized that need.
Arlington Life Shelter is a homeless shelter that strives to help the needy get back on their feet and take control of their lives. This shelter believes that everyone is unique, and its goal is to provide the services needed for each specific person that comes into the shelter. In 2020 alone, they have done programs for a total of 629 people, which included 178 women and children and 38 elders.
The shelter’s mission is “To promote self-sufficiency by providing shelter, employment programs, and transitional services for North Texans impacted by homelessness.” Their program motto is “Our programs are designed to further our mission and provide much-needed services for individuals and families impacted by homelessness in North Texas.” These things are said on their website, along with other goals and detailed information. Their website also includes contact information for any questions or concerns you may have.
The shelter was originally founded in 1988 as a safe haven from the cold and has since then grown to new heights. In 1993, the shelter had its first official expansion. This expansion included growing the capacity from 43 beds to around 87 at a time. Their latest installment was in the summer of 2019 and reopened around the same time in 2020. This construction was able to expand the beds to a total of 120, meaning more people than ever could stay at the shelter. Since its opening, Arlington Life Shelter has given over 25,000 people a place to stay. As the shelter evolved, it saw some different demographics. At first, it was mostly men plagued by mental illness or who had an addiction such as alcohol. As of late, the shelter has a nearly even ratio, with women and children being almost half the individuals staying there.
As stated earlier, Arlington Life Shelter is more than just a place to stay while you get back on your feet. They also offer a wide variety of programs and education for everyone. Their services include comprehensive case management, employment services, education for adults, and children’s services. Each individual staying at the shelter gets help finding work, provided they are eligible to do so. Each and every person will receive a job readiness test and help with job placement. Arlington Life Shelter has helped many people who once felt hopeless get back on their feet and live a life they enjoy.