A new space has opened up at Siloam Mission designed to support individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
Amiko-giba'igan is a new housewares space, offering all the essentials to those who need them.
"Amiko-giba'igan in Ojibwe translates to Beaver Dam, and so the idea is that the beaver represents wisdom and that the beaver gathers the things that they need, and then they go and they build their home," said Kristin Kennedy, interim transition manager at Siloam Mission. "So that's the idea behind our houseware store at Amiko, is that people would be able to come and gather the things that they need and then go create a space for themselves that's dignified.
Kennedy says having a space like this is a reminder that Siloam is not only offering shelter needs, but they're also helping people get back on their feet and into homes.
"We have a very large emphasis on housing folks," said Kennedy. "And so the idea is that we don't want people to need to depend on our services. We want to move them into housing, and we're pretty good at it, but one of the things that we find is that people are more likely to stay in a home if they have what they need and it feels like their home. We really want to provide that dignified space for folks."
Amiko-giba'igan has already provided essential items to 126 individuals and 6 families, helping them create stable living environments. 80 percent of those supported have maintained their housing six months after moving in.
Kennedy says this new space relies heavily on generous donations from the community, including furniture, household goods and linens.
"Any kitchen items, pots, pans, coffee makers like small appliances, toasters, toaster ovens, sometimes people only have hot plates if they have a rooming house, and so microwaves are great, different things like that. Even a mini fridge.
Donations can be dropped off Monday to Saturday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Siloam Mission's loading dock on Henry Street.