There’s been a lot of talk lately about emergency shelter, especially congregate shelter, not being a best practice. I want to take a moment to set the record straight and to re-center this conversation on the inherent dignity of all people, regardless of their housing status, behavioral health, or substance use. Congregate shelter typically refers

This month’s blog is written by Kristian Stipe, Programs Manager. At the Poverello Center, we know that success isn’t a straight line, and that it looks different for everyone. Housing can take time, effort, and a few tries. For many guests at the Poverello Center, the Resident Volunteer (RV) program is an avenue to find

This month’s blog is written by Frank Townsend, Swing Shift Supervisor I started working at the Johnson Street shelter in September 2023, right when the City of Missoula extended the contract from winter shelter to year-round emergency shelter.  A few months later, I experienced the first real crisis that would show me what JStreet was

I met Candice when she was referred to the Medical Respite Program at the Poverello Center. A lifelong Montanan, she lost her housing while battling addiction.  She came to the Poverello Center to try to get her life back on track, but she hadn’t been staying in shelter long when she found a dime-sized lump

As another Montana winter roars around us, our staff at the Poverello Center and Johnson Street Shelter are stepping up to meet the growing demand for safe, warm spaces. With temperatures plunging, the need for shelter is at an all-time high, and we are deeply grateful for the community’s support in tackling the challenges ahead.

Fifty years ago, the Poverello Center served its first Christmas meal. It’s unlikely they served more than 40 meals that year—a far cry from the over 400 meals we expect to serve this Christmas Day. We began with a mission to feed Missoula’s neighbors in need. Half a century later, we provide much more than