Homeless have new shelter in Brunswick County

BRUNSWICK COUNTY -- The area's homeless population may soon have a new place to go. Two local ministers want to establish Brunswick County's first homeless shelter. There are more than 600 homeless people living in New Hanover and Brunswick Counties and it has been a long-time dream for one local couple to help them get back on their feet. It may not look like much now, but Audrey Williamson and her husband have a vision for this abandoned building. Both ordained ministers, they want to turn it into a new home for the homeless. The House of Mercy and Encouragement's Audrey Williamson said, "All these years it's something we've wanted to do because we have been in need ourselves. And we know a lot of needy folks." Once it's open it will be the first homeless shelter in Brunswick County -- serving New Hanover and Columbus Counties as well. Its goal is to go beyond simply providing a place to sleep. "It will be a work-related program. We will bring them in, meet their physical needs, feed them, clothe them and hook them up with jobs where they'll be able to go back into the community and be an asset," Williamson said. The new facility will not only be able to accommodate individuals, it will also serve the increasing number of homeless families. And while the number of homeless people in our area is at a stable level now, experts fear the number could increase. The main reason: the skyrocketing price of real estate and lack of affordable housing. So far the Williamsons say the neighbors like the idea and want to help out. The biggest hurdle for them now is funding. They are accepting donations, including building supplies and office supplies. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP: CONTACT: Audrey & Rocky Williamson 910-231-2438 THEY ARE LOOKING FOR BUILDING SUPPLIES, OFFICE SUPPLIES, ROOFING SUPPLIES, AND MONETARY DONATIONS.