On Oct. 16 the Dane County Day Resource Center finally opened its doors. It is called The Beacon and is located at 615 E. Washington Ave. It is a comprehensive center designed to serve people who are experiencing homelessness. Inside the center, people may access basic needs services as well as social services, all in one building.

Inside The Beacon, a person can find free boxed lunches and snacks. There is also free laundry and free private showers. All soaps, detergents and towels are provided. There is a mail center for people who need to use a physical address for forms and applications.

In addition to the basic needs, preventive healthcare services are also available. There are staff to assist people in obtaining housing and employment. Case management services are available for those who need them. People are available to help guests to obtain identification documents. There are telephones and computers available as well.

The Beacon is also intended as a safe place to stay warm and protected from the weather. There are beautiful rooms for sitting or working. There are lockers for day storage. There are separate places for families with children, both indoors and outdoors.

It is long overdue, but I am grateful the doors are finally open. It is a warm and inviting place.

Please stop in or contact The Beacon if you are in need of help. They are also looking for volunteers. No experience is necessary and training will be provided.

The Beacon is open 365 days a year from 8 am‒5 pm. The phone number is 826-8040 and the email address is thebeacon@ccmadison.org.

Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or issues. I can be reached at 335-6827 or ritt.michele@countyofdane.com.