The SECU Foundation has awarded $1.2 million to Outreach Mission Inc. (OMI) to construct a new 76-bed shelter in Sanford, doubling its capacity to serve the homeless in Anson, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Johnston, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, and Richmond counties.

OMI provides individuals in need with direct access to housing resources and other critical aid. In 2022, the non-profit served over 21,000 meals, linked 1,600 clients to essential medical or employment services, and sheltered 536 men, women, and children. 

“OMI has incredible leaders who are passionate and committed to their mission of serving those experiencing homelessness,” said SECU Foundation Board Member McKinley Wooten in a press release. “We are pleased to support the growing need for OMI’s services to address homelessness in this area of the state.”

The new facility will consolidate two existing 100-year-old shelters that consistently remain at capacity, adding 40 beds.

“The SECU Foundation grant is one of many answered prayers for Outreach Mission Inc.’s new shelter,” said OMI Executive Director Laura Spivey in a press release. “This project will support our mission to help more people experiencing homelessness put their lives back together one piece at a time, one person at a time. OMI is honored to receive support from SECU Foundation, as both organizations truly believe in People Helping People®. We are very blessed and humbled by this gift. It will help the people in this community for many years to come. Thank you!”