The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on May 19, 2025, to discuss critical community services, particularly focusing on the reopening of the local emergency shelter operated by the Salvation Army. The meeting commenced with a prayer and a motion to approve the agenda, which was unanimously accepted.

The primary agenda item was the discussion surrounding the emergency shelter. Assistant County Manager Heather Steens provided an overview of the situation, detailing the financial challenges faced by the Salvation Army. The organization indicated that approximately $1 million would be needed to reopen the shelter, which had been closed due to staffing and financial issues. Steens highlighted that the Salvation Army had not applied for community-based funding from the county in the last two budget cycles, despite their ongoing financial struggles.

The Salvation Army's request for funding included a detailed breakdown of their monthly expenses and a plea for upfront financial support due to limited cash flow. They requested a total of $562,804.73, which would cover outstanding invoices, maintenance, staffing, and meals. However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of a sustainability plan and the organization's inability to hire permanent staff.

In response to the urgent need for shelter, Steens proposed a short-term solution involving partnerships with local organizations to provide temporary shelter options. This plan included utilizing hotel rooms for families and single women, as well as a mid-shelter option for single men. The goal was to address the immediate need for shelter beds while a more sustainable solution was developed.

Commissioners engaged in discussions about the funding request and the operational status of the shelter. Questions were raised about the building's safety and the need for inspections by the health department. Major Goldfarb from the Salvation Army addressed the commissioners, noting that they had recently hired staff for their thrift store, which is part of their sustainability efforts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to explore immediate and long-term solutions for the shelter crisis, emphasizing the importance of addressing the needs of the unhoused community in Cumberland County. The commissioners expressed their appreciation for the efforts made by staff and the Salvation Army in navigating these challenges. Further discussions and follow-up actions are expected as the county continues to assess the situation.