Contact:
Kim Thompson
504/415.9579
kim@neworleansmission.org

February 26, 2008

New Orleans Mission will open modular shelter

NEW ORLEANS -- The New Orleans Mission will open its modular dormitory Friday evening after receiving the occupancy permit today from the Louisiana State Fire Marshal.

The modular dormitory, equipped with air conditioning, heating, lighting and a fire alarm system, allows the Mission to house 140 people in double bunk beds. The Mission will invite residents from the tent city underneath Interstate 10 at Canal and Claiborne to stay in the modular dormitory, which can sustain up to a Category 2 hurricane.

Clients of the Mission receive access to bathroom facilities, dinner and breakfast in addition to security-patrolled overnight shelter. The Mission is also developing a plan to offer day services, including lunch, and provide space to store clients’ belongings onsite.

The Mission is collaborating with UNITY of Greater New Orleans to identify residents of tent city who have a mental illness and ensure they are offered proper treatment.

About the New Orleans Mission
The New Orleans Mission was established in 1989 as a 501(c)3 corporation to provide spiritual and physical support for the poor and homeless of New Orleans. Governed by a board of directors and managed by an executive director, the mission is the largest private service provider for the homeless in Central City. All services, which are provided for free, include overnight, emergency shelter, transitional housing, meals, clothing, showers and a one-year recovery program. The mission also hosts a free health clinic for women in collaboration with volunteer medical students from Louisiana State University and offers education and employment services for adults.