Iowa rescue mission turns thrift store into 46-bed shelter, frees space for 25 beds

Representative Image (AI-generated) As winter approaches, a rescue mission in Dubuque, Iowa, is making a major change to its downtown operations to create more emergency shelter space. The Dubuque Rescue Mission plans to close its downtown thrift store and convert the retail floor into a 46-bed emergency shelter for men. The move is also expected to free up another space that can be used by Opening Doors, a local organisation serving women and children experiencing homelessness. According to a report by KCRG, the changes are being driven by rising demand for shelter and concerns about people being left without a safe place to stay during freezing weather.Thrift store space will become emergency shelterThe Dubuque Rescue Mission is preparing to close Thrift Store 1 at 398 Main St. The final day of sales is scheduled for October 3, after which the retail floor will be transformed into emergency accommodation capable of housing up to 46 men each night. The mission has already stopped accepting thrift-store donations at the Main Street location.The decision comes as the organisation faces increased demand for its services. KCRG reported that monthly meal demand at the mission has doubl...