New Shelter Nears Grand Opening

A former Ottawa University building adjacent to the Rose Mofford Sports Complex is being converted into a new 100-unit shelter (photo by Kathryn M. Miller).

The North Mountain Healing Center (NMHC), operated by Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI), is set to provide 100 units for Phoenix residents experiencing homelessness. This new facility, located at 9414 N. 25th Ave., is expected to have a soft opening in August.

Back in 2021, Phoenix city allocated $4 million from CARES Act funds for the project, and Maricopa County contributed an additional $6 million. The center will accept residents through a referral system, prohibiting walk-ins. Comprehensive security measures include 24/7 on-site security personnel and an EMT.

The center will also have around-the-clock staff, featuring a manager, supervisor, and several behavioral health technicians. This ensures robust support for the residents as they transition to permanent housing.

A recent Point in Time Count Report by the Maricopa County Regional Continuum of Care highlighted that 9,435 individuals were experiencing homelessness on Jan. 22, 2024. Notably, 57 percent were sheltered compared to 49 percent the previous year. In Phoenix, 2,701 people were unsheltered. The opening of the North Mountain facility aims to reduce the burden on the city’s homeless services.

For more information, visit www.northmountainhealingcenter.com.