Local nonprofit opens temporary homeless shelter for women

Ecumenical Social Ministries (ESM), a local nonprofit, opened a temporary emergency shelter Tuesday for homeless women in downtown Colorado Springs.

The nonprofit is providing shelter to 25 women between Nov. 1 until Nov. 18 when the new year-round shelter at Springs Rescue Mission is completed.

“In support of our mission EMS decided to step up because we feel this is the right thing to do. These women need a place to stay that’s safe and warm,” said LaToya Foster, communications director at Ecumenical Social Ministries.
Other area nonprofits are stepping up to assist ESM in the mission to help get homeless women into a safe and warm place.

Betty McDaniel said she’ll be in line early, hoping to get a spot at ESM.

“I think its great that they’re thinking about women over there,” said McDaniel.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. for registration and it’ll work on a first come, first serve basis.

“Once we get our 25 max, we will have to cut off for this week. So once you get a bed you’ll have that bed for the entire week,” said Foster.

The city approached EMS saying the need to help homeless women is at an all time high.

“We hear all types of stories how women were sexually assaulted, how women don’t feel safe,” said Foster.

The temporary shelter will provide some ease while women wait for the new shelter to open.

“I think it’s wonderful,” said McDaniel.
This year, ESM has served over 74,000 people and their food pantry serves over 17,000 families. They also provide hot showers, clothing, blankets and coats.

The shelter is located at 201 N Weber, at the corner of Bijou and Weber.

Springs Rescue Mission also opened up a men’s warming shelter today on their campus.