Transforming Lives, Building Hope: Wheeler Mission—Bloomington Launches Comprehensive Campaign to Enhance Shelter Facilities and Expand Transformative Services

Wheeler Mission—Bloomington, the largest homeless shelter provider in South-Central Indiana, is excited to announce the launch of our Transforming Lives, Building Hope comprehensive campaign. This strategic initiative will enhance the current facilities on the Westplex Avenue campus while strengthening the emergency shelter services and expanding long-term program opportunities for those experiencing homelessness. 
 
Strengthening Emergency Shelter Services and Expanding Program Opportunities 
 
With the support of our community, the Transforming Lives, Building Hope campaign will improve and secure current facilities, create new spaces for community partners, and enhance program offerings. The aim is to create an intentionally designed campus which will provide the men in our care with not only a safe place to shelter but also the tools and resources they need to establish a future of health and success while removing barriers to long-term stability. 
 
Given the number of individuals Wheeler Mission—Bloomington serves, our facilities are in urgent need of a comprehensive upgrade. Safety and security concerns will be addressed by installation of perimeter fencing and a secure welcome center, controlled entry points, upgraded surveillance, and the installation of personal locker space. Additionally, the kitchen and cafeteria, which serve 60,000-80,000 meals annually, will be upgraded for the first time in over two decades. Our campaign will also provide collaborative office spaces and private exam rooms for community partners who provide access to addiction treatment, medical and behavioral healthcare, job training, and more. Lastly, the campaign will allow Wheeler Mission—Bloomington to expand current capacity and classroom space for our holistic, long-term residential programs. ​

A Call for Community Support 
 
From Dana Jones, Wheeler Mission—Bloomington's Director of Community Engagement and Services, “This campaign challenges us to do more than provide a place of refuge—it’s about empowering our guests with work readiness, life skills, and providing opportunities leading to their stability, while committing daily to their success. With our community’s support and by God’s grace, together we will help restore identity and purpose, reignite hope, and transform lives so our guests can thrive in our community with confidence, dignity, and a fresh start.” 
 
The Transforming Lives, Building Hope campaign will kick off publicly at Sunshine & Shelter: A Summer Gathering for Good! on July 10th from 6-7:30 pm. The event is hosted by the Wheeler Mission—Bloomington staff and will be held at Sherwood Oaks Christian Church, 2700 E. Rogers Road in Bloomington.  Our campaign offers a unique opportunity for our community to directly contribute to our mission and ensure that we can continue to provide life-altering services to those experiencing homelessness. Supporters are encouraged to consider contributing to our campaign through three-year pledges. Together, we can help transform lives and build hope. For more information about the campaign or to make a donation, visit Building Hope - Wheeler Mission or contact Dana Jones. ​