07/26/2026
Thank you to the Breakfast Rotary group for inviting us to talk about our current projects and hopes for the future!
I am sharing this message from last week’s guest presenters because helping those experiencing homelessness—through transitional housing, access to healthcare, emergency shelter, and supportive resources—strengthens the foundation of a stable community. It also aligns with Rotary International’s commitment to building peace through service. Service Above Self.
Last Wednesday, our club welcomed Sara Hamilton of Room at the Inn and Scott Johnson, President of Housing the Community JC (HCJC). They shared how their organizations are making a difference through initiatives including Jefferson City Room at the Inn, Project Homeless Connect, Open Doors, and Transitional Housing.
Their most urgent priority is the proposed Resource Center and Emergency Shelter at 107 Adams Street. While some have expressed concerns that the facility could attract more people experiencing homelessness, increase crime, or discourage downtown investment, research and experience tell a different story.
The vast majority of people experiencing homelessness remain in the communities where they have family, employment history, healthcare providers, schools, or other support networks. Studies have also found that professionally managed emergency shelters do not result in a statistically significant increase in neighborhood crime. In many cases, they reduce the impacts of unsheltered homelessness by providing a safe, supervised environment while connecting individuals with housing, healthcare, employment assistance, and other essential services.
Strong communities respond to difficult challenges with compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based solutions. By supporting Housing the Community JC and the proposed Resource Center, we can help build a Jefferson City where fewer people are forced to sleep in parks, parking lots, and doorways—and where more individuals have the opportunity to regain stability, dignity, and hope.
Together, we can make a lasting difference—one person, one family, and one act of service at a time.