610 Gibson Street, Eau Claire (pictured), is the planned site for a future homeless shelter. Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council announced its pre-campaign raise $5.725 million in order to purchase and renovate the building. It was selected out of more than 50 other potential properties. (Image via Google Street View)

Minutes ago, Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council (WDEOC) announced its plans to launch a $5.725 million capital campaign to purchase and renovate a Gibson Street building to house both a Day Resource Center (DRC) and housing and family services programs.

WDEOC has established a fund with the Eau Claire Community Foundation for its capital campaign, with a total $1.5 million already committed to it, including a $500,000 contribution from the City of Eau Claire.

A recent media release said the new DRC will provide a year-round daytime shelter for homeless individuals, offering bathrooms and showers, storage areas, and congregate spaces for those in need. Hope Gospel Mission will provide staff and oversee the DRC's day-to-day operations.

"These services will replace and expand upon those offered by the current Community Haven House at 416 Washington Street, which does not have funding beyond 2025," the release stated. 

"Currently, there is no permanent space for the unhoused to gather, which burdens the public spaces of Eau Claire. Additionally, there is no space for the unhoused to find protection from the elements seven days a week, 12 months a year. Finally, there is no coordinated, collaborative, and case-managed access to the resources for this popuulation to achieve wellness, employment, and housing security. This center is an opportunity to address all three of these needs in one project."

WDEOC is the largest nonprofit organization operating in western Wisconsin, with more than 20 unique programs promoting economic independence (childcare programs, business development, programs to address homelessness, and more).

Crescendo Fundraising Professionals, LLC, will manage the new campaign. The firm has already conducted a study that outlines fundraising strategies, identified potential leadership and prospective contributors and volunteers, and allowed area residents to voice their opinions, the media release said. 

Anyone interested in serving on a pre-campaign committee may contact WDEOC Communications Coordinator Dale Karls at dale.karls@wdeoc.org or (715) 836-7511.

View the full media release below:

Learn more about Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council at www.westerndairyland.org.