After more than five decades of helping people experiencing homelessness, the Christian Service Center on West Central Boulevard has undergone a $7 million renovation aimed at expanding services and restoring dignity to those in need.
The facility, which has served the community since 1971, recently completed upgrades across its campus, including a nearly 6,000-square-foot pavilion, new restrooms and shower facilities, and a new medical clinic.
Before the renovations, parts of the building were in such poor condition that the facility was nearly condemned, according to a center representative.
The improvements are designed to help the center serve more people while providing access to essential resources.
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“Something like this is so pivotal for a lot of people,” a center representative said. “Just having a shower and getting clean can make all the difference in the type of day you’re having.”
The new medical clinic expands access to health services, including mental health care, physical health care and pharmacy services. The center also has a physician on staff.
The campus also features one of the buses used by the 407 Connect program, which helps connect people experiencing homelessness with housing resources.
Since launching in August 2025, the program has helped house 209 people, according to a center representative.
For Taylon, who experienced homelessness for about six months, the center’s support helped her begin rebuilding her life. She said access to basic necessities, including showers and laundry facilities, helped her move forward. She has also been able to attend college.
“I wouldn’t be in this situation without this program,” Taylon said. “I was able to take a shower, wash my clothes.”
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She described the impact of receiving help as a series of small steps that ultimately changed her life.
“Everything has been a domino effect,” she said. “All of the small pieces may look insignificant, but the big picture is earth-shaking, life-changing.”
Center representatives say the goal is to make getting help as simple as possible.
“All we ask is that you just show up,” one representative said.
The renovations mark a new chapter for the organization as it continues its mission of helping people experiencing homelessness access the services and support they need to move forward.