Target date for a new Oconee emergency shelter

January is the target date to open a new Oconee emergency shelter to relieve homelessness as well as help those addicted overcome their substance habits. It’s the project by Christ Central Ministries underway in the former jail section of the Oconee Law Enforcement Center that has the endorsement of Sheriff Mike Crenshaw. Christ Central Ministries’ Ashley Williams says the shelter will serve as an emergency home for those displaced by calamities such as home fires and accept referrals from churches and hospital emergency rooms. “This will be an overnight emergency shelter,” Williams told 101.7/WGOG NEWS. The facility is being developed to be the second of its kind in Oconee County—in addition to Our Daily Rest in Seneca, now in its 10th year combating homelessness. Williams envisions part of the role of the Christ Central Ministries’ facility to assist Our Daily Rest. Part of the former detention section of the building damaged by a 2017 fire is just now being readied for repairs, approved this week by the Oconee County Council. Williams says one of the hurdles that he believes has been resolved is the installation of an acceptable set of water sprinklers.