‘More than shelter’: $3M grant expands safe housing for women and children in Bend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Shepherd's House Ministries was awarded a $3 million grant today, to expand housing for women and children in Central Oregon. The funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank will support the expansion of Abi's House in Bend, allowing the organization to triple its current capacity.

The expansion aims to address the urgent needs of women and children experiencing homelessness. Abi's House currently accommodates up to 10 people but frequently reaches its limit, resulting in families being turned away due to a lack of space.

The $3 million award will fund the purchase of additional residences located near the existing Abi's House facility. This expansion will establish a network of trauma-informed housing for women and children overcoming challenges such as addiction, abuse and chronic instability. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, women make up more than one-third of the homeless population in Oregon.

Gina Stout serves as the CEO of Shepherd's House Ministries. She noted that the additional space will change how the organization interacts with those seeking help.

"This project represents what's possible when community partners come together to address homelessness and promote long-term stability for people with compassion and intention," Stout said. "It will allow us to say "yes' to women and children who too often hear "there's no room." By expanding Abi's House, we're creating more than just shelter. We are creating safe, healing spaces where women can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope."

Summit Bank acted as a partner in the project and facilitated the grant through the Federal Home Loan Bank. Gary O'Connell, Central Oregon market president for Summit Bank, expressed the bank's commitment to community investment.

"Supporting efforts like this are one of the most meaningful parts of what we do at Summit Bank," O'Connell said. "We are proud to partner in bringing Federal Home Loan Bank grant funding into our communities and to support organizations that are making a real difference in people's lives every day. This kind of investment helps strengthen the places we call home and we are honored to be a part of it."

Beyond its residential programs, Shepherd's House Ministries provides assistance to hundreds of people each year. The organization operates mobile outreach, serves meals and provides shelter and case management services for vulnerable populations throughout the region.