Emergency Women's Shelter Forced To Close

ANDERSON, Ind. -- An emergency shelter dedicated to serving homeless women and children in Madison County will shut its doors at the end of the month due to financial strains.

The Mustin Women's Shelter has housed homeless women and children for the past eight years, 6News' Jennifer Carmack reported.

But officials for the organization that runs the facility -- Christian Center Rescue Ministries -- said they simply can't afford to keep both the women's shelter and the separate men's shelter open.

"The need is great and growing and we need to pool our resources to make sure were doing the best we can," said the organization's spokesman, Scott Richards.

There are currently 20 women and three children living at the shelter. Richards said the ministry is working with other area agencies, including Alternative -- an Anderson shelter that typically serves victims of domestic violence -- to make arrangements for the residents.

Still, some said they were worried they won't qualify for help elsewhere.

"This is the only shelter in town that is an emergency basis. You can walk up and say, 'I'm homeless. I need services,' and pretty much walk right in," said Mustin resident Tina Jones. "It's sad. I still think there's a need for it."

Richards said the ministry will continue to assist the women with food and clothing needs. The last day for the Mustin shelter will be Sept. 30.