Rapid Shelter Columbia celebrates its 2nd birthday

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Rapid Shelter Columbia staff and residents joined City of Columbia leaders to celebrate the Calhoun street location’s 2nd birthday.

The center is dedicated to helping the homeless find a permanent home and live a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Former resident Matt Kummer, who now has a permanent home, expressed his gratitude to Rapid Shelter Columbia during the ceremony.

“I can’t tell you how nice it felt to have a key and a Pallet house. I hadn’t had my own home in a long time, and there was power in that. It was something I could call my own, it was a really moving and moving experience for me,” says Kummer.

Awards were also given to community partners for their collaboration and commitment to overcoming barriers and creating positive change for those in need.

“It was really great to see people come together and reflect on how much progress we’ve made in the last two years. Today I shared that one of our employees was late for the celebration because she was helping a resident sign her lease. “We have permanently housed 71 people and I am proud of that number,” says Councilor Dr. Aditi Bussells.

This employee was Case Manager Jalen Loney.

While the facility offers its 50 residents a range of resources and services, including addiction counseling, therapy and housing placement, Loney says change has to come from within.

“It’s more of a mental connection because we see drug use, we see firsthand the mental traumas that occur. I see it every day. I answer the phone, one phone call can change a person’s life. So you actually see it more practically and you can see the change. Sometimes we can’t replace everyone unless they’re ready, so when they’re ready, we help them along the way with open arms,” says Loney.

To make a referral to Rapid Shelter Columbia, the website states that the first referral attempt will be from MIRCI, Transitions, PRISMA Health, USC Supportive Housing, etc. Any provider such as should go through an outreach team at the agency, he says.

For unprotected needs, you may contact the City of Columbia’s contracted Outreach Team:

Chief Outreach Specialist Alycia Roach, LMSW 803-467-0411

Evening Outreach Specialist Larry Benjamin 803-363-4581

At this time, if you are unable to reach an outreach provider, you can send a referral to Nyasia Franklin, City of Columbia Homeless Services Project Manager. Ms. Franklin, MSCJ can be reached at (803)545-3476; [email protected].