The Interfaith Opportunities Network of the Amherst area would like to express its deep appreciation to Immanuel Lutheran Church for its generous sharing of space with the unhoused of our area. This modest-sized church has given over a large portion of its space to Craig’s Door to serve as a shelter.
Since Nov. 1, 2021, Craig’s Doors has operated at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Amherst. What began as a temporary Craig’s Doors daily shelter from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. quickly transitioned to 24/7 in January 2022 during Covid.
Initially a shelter for winter months only, the congregation at Immanuel voted in the fall of 2022, to extend their space to a year-round shelter to accommodate the increased need for the unhoused in our community. Although the church was not designed for use of this nature, Immanuel has continued to share additional space and resources as is necessary.
The problem of providing housing for all is a community issue that we all must face. Until we can meet this need as a community, this church has “stepped up” to provide this necessary service. We are deeply grateful for this act of kindness and generosity from one of our Interfaith Opportunity Network members.
Naz Mohammed, Mary Santiago, and Katie Tolles
On behalf of the Interfaith Opportunities Network