LA MADONNA DELLA STRADA INC

Programs

1. LMDS was in a development & start-up mode throughout 2024 and spent most of its time fine turning a new program model, seeing a facility and fine tuning the staffing and volunteer requirements to open a facility. The highlights of this activity are outlined below: 1. Program Development: The LMDS program would be a low barrier emergency shelter that meets people where they are, regardless of their mental health or substance abuse through: Creating a place of hope, compassion, and advocacy for persons in need without distinction with regard to religion, color, race or whether under Department of Human Services sanctions. Aiding and assisting person in need to become self-sufficient by providing information, guidance and advocacy. The program would initially be open daily 7 days per week from 7pm to 7am; serving an all male population; and offering hospitality, overnight shelter, food, clothing, and transportation services.

   $0 spent

2. Facility Development - For the past two years, one of the primary tasks turned out to be identifying an acceptable space to house the shelter to purchase or lease. A group of volunteer supports, including several who have worked with Sisters Grace & Rita for decades, formed an organizing committee. The group met regularly seeking an appropriate building to use as a shelter. Unfortunately, the inventory of appropriate locations was very limited, and those that could be considered, required significant rehabilitation or were turned down due to zoning restrictions. During this time, the group also redeveloped a working relationship with the Open Door Mission (ODM). In lieu of the current needs in Rochester and recognition of common views of the needs of the homeless population, ODM offered to lease LMDS approximately 4000 square feet of currently unused space at their shelter located at 210 West Main Street in downtown Rochester with plans to be able to open for 2025/26 winter. The space, which has previously operated as a shelter, includes showers, laundry, and a small kitchen and will accommodate approximately 20-25 guest.

   $0 spent

3. Staffing/Volunteer Base Development - LMDS financial support comes primarily from grants and donations. As a result, we expect to primarily use volunteers to manage and staff the shelter. The only exceptions will be the hiring or two paid part-time Shelter Managers. All others will be volunteers, including the participation of board and organizing committee members. In addition to the shelter manager on duty, we will expect to have at least one volunteer for every 10 guests. Volunteers will provide guest support and administrative tasks as needed. Once a shelter is oen, the Shelter Manager's responsibilities will include; opening and closing the shelter each day, oversight of volunteer scheduling and performance, oversight of guest activities, and primary security coverage which will be supplemented by ODM.

   $0 spent

The 3 programs described on its FY2024 Form 990-EZ. Program spending in total: $0.