The old McNair Presbyterian Church at 503 Lewis St. will serve as the McNair Men’s Mission emergency homeless shelter for men.

Brya Labig | R-H photo

WASHINGTON COURT HOUSE — An emergency shelter for homeless men in the community is close to completion.

The “McNair Men’s Mission” has been established by a group of citizens for the “purpose of providing emergency shelter and food, among other services, while showing Christ’s love for our homeless men in Fayette County,” according to Rev. Daniel McLean, president of the mission.

McNair was previously a Presbyterian church that was sold to the City of Washington Court House.

“Now in the process of becoming McNair Men’s Mission, the church will continue to serve the Lord in an important way,” McLean said.

It will house up to five men per night, and they will receive a shower and hot meal shortly after arrival. A Christian-based program will follow. Subsequent to their night’s rest, the men will be provided breakfast in the morning before departure.

Each night, a lottery-type system will be employed to fairly decide who will be allowed entrance for that night, according to McLean. At this time, five men can be permitted entrance.

The projected opening of the mission is Monday, Jan. 15. In addition to meeting their basic needs, they will be guided to agencies that can help get the men back on their feet again, McLean said.

McLean added, “There are many reasons why a man might find himself homeless, and nearly all are not of his choosing. Unfortunate circumstances are part of life. Sometimes those circumstances bring about unwanted homelessness. Mental problems, illness, job loss and general hopelessness are few examples. While homeless families and women have places to go in Washington Court House, there is currently nowhere for men. Hence, the need for this mission is imperative.”

The mission is located at the old McNair Presbyterian Church at 503 Lewis St. Construction is currently being done to renovate the downstairs of the building in order to serve the needs of these men.

For those who would like to contribute to the mission — such as monetary gifts, labor goods or other services — please contact Kelly Michael, director, at 740-463-6741.