(Credit: KLBJ staff)
Last week, the Austin Chamber of Commerce announced a plan by a coalition of private sector entities to raise the necessary funds for a temporary homeless shelter to address Austin’s growing crisis. The coalition, known as ATX Helps, is comprised of local Austin businesses, faith-based organizations, members of the Downtown Austin Alliance, and philanthopic organizations.
According to the Chamber, the coalition has so far raised $23,000. While that is indeed a sign of progress, it’s a far cry from the $14-million the shelter will require to remain in operation for two years.
Construction alone is estimated to be around $2-million, and actually getting the operation off the ground could cost up to $5-million more.
According to the Statesman, the bulk of the donations have been $200 or less.
