The Gathering Inn, Homeless Shelters in Placer County

On a cold day in January 2004, a group of ministers met in a local church and shared how heavy their hearts were over a longstanding problem in their community. There was no safe and warm place for people to go if they lacked housing during the coldest months of the year. The ministers represented many different faiths, but felt united in their desire to help those who were suffering each night in the cold. Together, the ministers imagined gathering those who were homeless into the warmth of their churches, to provide supper, overnight accommodations and hospitality. They discussed the nomadic model of care, which had been used successfully in many other parts of the country. It was a simple concept that appealed to them: the site of the hosting church would change from one night to the next.

After a period of discernment, they decided to develop the new program. In early February, Deacon Bill Boudier and the Social Justice Advocates of Placer County agreed to organize the effort. They called the new program The Gathering Inn and worked together over the next several months to design the operation, raise funds, purchase a bus and enroll about 23 churches to serve up to 50 people each night from November 15th through March 13th. They collaborated with the County and medical community to provide limited medical care. And, they coordinated with other community organizations to help transition people out of homelessness.

In the fall, an Advisory Board was formed to provide The Gathering Inn with ongoing guidance and oversight. Its membership reflected the religious and geographic diversity of the program. Arrangements were also made to have What Would Jesus Do? Inc. provide the program with administrative support and a 501 (c) 3 non-profit status.

Now, the Gathering Inns journey is turning more fully towards educating the community and inviting their prayerful support. Church members are beginning to organize, planning menus and messages of hope to share with the guests they will serve. In the days and months and years ahead, The Gathering Inn will continue to evolve. Its spirit-filled story tells of a community gathering together in loving response to the need people have for hope, dignity and secure place to rest at night. It is a story of compassion; and, it is a story that invites your participation.