Asheville — August 31, 2026: The Salvation Army has announced an operational pause for its long-term residential emergency shelter program at the Ce…
Asheville — August 31, 2026: The Salvation Army has announced an operational pause for its long-term residential emergency shelter program at the Center of Hope, located at 204 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville, effective November 1.
This temporary suspension marks the first time in nearly 50 years of continuous service that the organization has halted its year-round residential lodging program in Asheville. Leadership emphasized that the facility is not closing permanently, but rather pausing long-term residential intake through the winter while mounting a dedicated local fundraising drive with the goal of resuming full operations on May 1, 2027.
- Who the Shelter Serves: The Center of Hope operates a co-ed facility with a total capacity of 80 beds, typically housing around 65 residents per night. The program supports single men, single women, veterans, and intact families. Historically, roughly 85% of program participants successfully transition into permanent housing.
- Relocation and Transition Efforts: Case managers began working intensively in late spring to ensure no current residents are left unhoused when the pause begins. The Salvation Army is collaborating with regional partner organizations, including Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), to connect individuals and families with transitional programs, dedicated women’s and veterans’ facilities (such as Transformation Village and Veterans Restoration Quarters), and permanent supportive housing options.
- The Funding Gap: Maintaining the Center of Hope requires approximately $90,000 to $100,000 per month, or roughly $1.2 million annually. Local branches do not receive operational subsidies from the national Salvation Army organization or thrift store revenue to sustain shelter programs; instead, they rely on localized donations, municipal support, and competitive public grants.
The Expiration of Federal Relief Grants: The immediate financial shortfall followed the expiration of a major $1.2 million multi-year grant on June 30 that had fully covered operating costs. That funding originated from federal emergency pandemic relief appropriations, including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds passed down through regional channels…