John Mills has worked for the Salvation Army for six years and leads social services for the local chapter. The shelter in downtown Gastonia closed in August due to funding issues. About 30 people were affected.
“[The Department of Social Services] really became involved as far as through their ERAP program, emergency rental assistance program — 95% were able to get ERAP funding and they transitioned to permanent housing,” Mills said. “The 5% or the 10%, they moved on to other housing options or reunification with their families.”
“There is no other shelter here,” Mills said. “The closest one at this point would be Hesed House in Lincolnton. That’s a good run, so you always worry.”
