FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO) — Sharon Tucker announced Wednesday that $2.26 million in philanthropic funding has been pledged to support the new Anchor Resource Center, a planned 24/7 facility aimed at helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Fort Wayne.
The low-barrier resource center is proposed for 333 E. Washington Blvd. in downtown Fort Wayne and would provide access to housing assistance, healthcare, job training, and recovery services.
“Since taking office, I have had hundreds of conversations with business and nonprofit leaders, property owners, law enforcement and residents about the need to address the challenge of homelessness in our community, particularly in downtown Fort Wayne,” said Mayor Tucker. “Our team has researched best practices, visited other cities, and had extensive conversations with service providers. Today, I’m grateful to announce that philanthropic leaders are expressing confidence in our plans for a low-barrier resource center and investing $2.26 million into making it a reality.”
A proposal to approve funding for the acquisition and renovation of the building will be introduced to Fort Wayne City Council on May 26, with discussion and possible votes expected in June.
The newly formed nonprofit Anchor Resource Center will lease the building from the city and coordinate services for residents experiencing homelessness. Officials say the center is designed to connect people with permanent housing opportunities, employment resources, mental health services, addiction recovery programs, and medical care.
Current board members include Meg Distler, Austin Knox, Erin Ness, Thomas McArthur, and Amanda Fall.
Several healthcare and community organizations have already committed to providing services at the facility, including Parkview Health, Parkview Behavioral Health Institute, Lutheran Health Network, Blue Jacket, Avenues Recovery, and the Hope and Recovery Team (HART). Catholic Charities has also conditionally committed to providing case management services.
City officials estimate the acquisition and renovation of the building will cost approximately $6 million, while annual operating expenses are projected at $1.2 million. Leaders say funding sources include philanthropic donations, opioid settlement funds, supplemental local income tax revenue, ARPA interest revenue, and support from the Fort Wayne New Markets Revitalization Fund.
$1.2 million estimated for operations annually. Approximately two and a half years of operating revenue has already been identified and pledged. Sources of funds include Fort Wayne New Markets Revitalization Fund, Opioid Settlement funds and the philanthropic sources named above (excluding Surack Family Foundation).
