City of South Bend releases finalized report on low-barrier shelter

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The City of South Bend has released the Low Barrier Shelter Report which addresses the needs of people in the city who are homeless.

“As a caring community, we must support our unhoused neighbors and create housing opportunities for every South Bend resident,” said Mayor James Mueller. “A low-barrier shelter is a critical component of the Homelessness Implementation Group’s strategy. I thank them for all their hard work and look forward to partnering with the County and community leaders to make this happen.”

The city is considering a low-barrier shelter with 30- 40 beds.

Typically, a low barrier shelter gives guests 24-hour access, doesn't require sobriety and its policies deescalate conflict while keeping people safe. It also would allow pets.

The shelter could have 4 beds per room, a community room with storage lockers for resident belongings, crates for pets and a resident cooking area.

Click here to view the finalized report or the Power Point presentation