Jackson Interfaith Shelter (JIS) was established in 1974 after our founder, Bev Garges, learned that a man froze to death on the streets of Jackson. Appalled this was happening in her own city, she rallied the businesses, churches, and all willing in the community to ensure tragedies like this would not continue. Our original mission to provide emergency food and shelter continues but has also greatly expanded to provide case management and other essential resources to work towards stable housing and holistic wellbeing. We now have 76 beds to serve men, women and children. Additionally, we own and operate 14 rental units in our neighborhood that provide transitional housing out of the shelter as well as the programmatic facility for our incredible partner agency, MyPlace. Beyond meals for those staying at the shelter, we also provide three prepared meals a day, 365 days a year to anyone in need.

A significant need to enhance the care of those residing at JIS is creating a separate space for families. Currently single men, single women as well as parents with their children all reside under one roof. The family shelter will increase the safety and support we can offer to families by providing a separate space for them to work toward their unique goals.