Residents in Sioux City protested outside city hall on Monday to show their support for the Warming Shelter.
The Warming Shelter provides services to people who are suffering from homelessness. Services include emergency housing, meals, and mental health support.
Last Monday, council member Rick Bertrand said an anonymous former client relayed information that the shelter takes on a feel of a small prison at night, pointing out that staff members turn their heads to drug use and that grooming and prostitution are taking place.
During the public forum of the city council meeting, more residents expressed their concerns regarding Bertrand’s comments.
Annaliese Hansen, a client of the Warming Shelter, said that the shelter has provided her and her baby with a family room.
Hansen added it has been a very safe and clean environment for her baby.
Shayla Moore, executive director of the Warming Shelter, said not only does the shelter see struggle, but it also sees courage, resilience, and hope.
Moore added the hope was reflected in the people that went to support the shelter.
Earlier in the day, the Warming Shelter held an open house for community members to see how it operates and to get a feel for its environment.
