New Mt. Pleasant summer day shelter offers homeless a helping hand

Homelessness is a year-round issue and those experiencing it need support regardless of the season or weather conditions.

That’s why now – and in the wake of COVID-19 – the Isabella County Restoration House (ICRH) has introduced its first Summer Day Shelter for local residents experiencing homelessness. The program opened on June 1 and is already answering the needs of many homeless individuals and families in Isabella County.

“Although many services are opening back up as we slowly return to some form of normal, that’s not true for those facing homelessness in our community,” says Dee Obrecht, Executive Director of ICRH. “Many are still struggling to take care of daily activities like showering, doing laundry, finding computer and WIFI access, and getting meals.”

Now all those services are available through mid-September at the Summer Day Shelter from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. ICRH is located at 120 S. Pine St. in downtown Mt. Pleasant.
Dee Obrecht, Executive Director of the Isabella County Restoration House.
“Participation varies from day to day. But we already have 30 people registered for the program,” says Obrecht.

The ICRH’s mission is to provide temporary shelter and empower a pathway to self-sufficiency for people experiencing homelessness in the community.

Since opening the seasonal, rotating shelter in 2017, the ICRH has provided a safe, warm place for those who need shelter for as many winter nights as possible. From mid-October to mid-April, a different host site opens its doors to ICRH guests each week.

This summer, the shelter and its board knew more help was needed.

“The community has been extremely generous each winter in their support, but summer is not a time when we usually seek volunteers, so people aren’t used to seeing if we need help,” says Obrecht. “Certainly, any volunteers this summer would be greatly appreciated.”

For help or to learn more about the Isabella County Restoration House, visit ICRHouse.org or call (989) 824-1207.