Leavenworth Interfaith Community Of Hope

Welcome Central is the heart of the Community of Hope. Its programs provide clients with the help they need to access direct services provided by other agencies. In addition, Welcome Central fills the gap in services by providing free transportation, assistance in obtaining personal identification documents (birth certificate, ID, social security card, marriage license, etc.), support with accessing government assistance programs, help completing applications, VISPDAT homeless assessment and connection to the Kansas Statewide Homeless Coalition, and personal and educational support. It is staffed by a director and 3 volunteers each week. In 2024, 372 clients were served, 130 clients assisted with birth certificates and identifications, 12,000 miles were driven by volunteer drivers and staff to take clients to essential services, and with the support of Welcome Central, 46 individuals moved from homelessness into permanent housing.

The Day Center is open 365 days per year and provides a space for individuals from Leavenworth County to safely gather during the day to access equipment and facilities for basic needs. The Day Center provides an environment where individuals learn to contribute by partaking in chores and other life skills. Individuals receive a warm meal, and basic needs are met (shower, laundry and a safe place to store their personal belongings0. The Day Center provides three meals a day to those who are unhoused, and lunch to anyone in the community experiencing food insecurity. During 2024, the Day Center provided over 24,846 meals, over 1,281 showers and over 750 loads of laundry. The Day Center is staffed by three part-time employees and volunteers.