United Way of St. Clair County Grants Funds to Help Shelter Stay Open 24/7

The United Way of St. Clair County granted funds to the Blue Water Area Rescue Mission (BWARM) through their Emergency Services fund.  BWARM is a full-service overnight men’s emergency shelter that provides life skills training and emergency shelter in a safe, clean, and warm environment.

Before the pandemic, BWARM opened daily at 4 PM and closed in the morning. Today, BWARM is practicing social distancing and remains open 24/7 for their residents. The grant from the United Way of St. Clair County will provide for the cost of utilities, food, and necessary products to keep BWARM open 24/7 for its residents, so they can safely comply with the governor’s executive order.

Thanks to additional support from Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan and other groups, the United Way is able to address unforeseeable, unique needs in the community that are rooted in the COVID-19 pandemic. Campaign Director Brent Gillette explained, “Being part of the community solution by partnering with other community leaders has been both educational and rewarding.”

Reporting for WGRT – Marty Doorn