A Warm Welcome: A New Ministry Center in Warrick Co. Offering a Warming Shelter and Recovery Support

Unpredictable December Weather in Southern Indiana

The weather here in Southern Indiana is always a bit unpredictable—on Sunday, it was almost 60 degrees, today it’s in the 40s, and by the end of the week, we’re expecting temps to dip below 20. December really does throw all kinds of curveballs!

A New Warming Center in Boonville

I recently came across a post on Facebook about a new warming center in the former Boonville Wesleyan Church. Since I’m always trying to stay in the loop about what’s going on in my little town, I reached out to the lead pastor to learn more and see if there was anything I could do to help or share about their needs.

The Shucks’ Vision for a Mission Center

When the church closed back in April, Bradley Shuck and his wife, Mary, moved to Boonville from Wheatcroft, KY, with plans to reopen it. However, after some reflection, they realized the building could be better used as a full-fledged mission. There’s a significant need in Warrick County for a place that not only helps people experiencing homelessness but also offers recovery support.

As the weather turned colder, they saw the need for a warm, safe space for people living without electricity or a roof over their heads. Pastor Brad explained that they aren’t just offering a place for the unhoused to sleep overnight. They want to understand why each person is experiencing homelessness and work with individuals to help them find permanent housing. In fact, a family with small children came in earlier in the week and by Wednesday, the Impact Ministries staff were able to help secure them housing.

Opening the Center Sooner Than Expected

Even though the Shucks initially planned to reopen the church in February, they recognized the urgent need and pushed the opening date up to October. Since then, they’ve been working through renovations, dealing with obstacles, and inviting guests in—all while getting the space ready for the community.

What the Impact Ministries Offers

Right now, the warming center provides three meals a day plus snacks. They have a hygiene shelf for guests to grab essential items, and they’re in the process of installing a shower.

On top of that, there’s a coffee bar, church services twice a week on Wednesday and Sunday, and several recovery classes to support people on their journey to stability.

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What Impact Ministries Needs

• Food
  • Snacks
  • Drinks
  • Fresh Fruit and Salads
  • Salad Dressings
  • Fresh Meats
  • Hamburger Helper
  • Breakfast Items
  • Spaghetti Sauce
  • Potatoes for Baking
  • Shredded cheese
  • Tortillas/pitas
  • Chili seasoning packs
  • Spaghetti sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Mustard
  • Ketchup
  • Tea
  • Lemonade
  • Powdered Vanilla Creamer
• Cold Weather Items
  • Coats (especially kids coats)
  • Gloves
  • New Hats
• Toys
• Hygiene Items (especially hotel sized ones)
• Drain plugs x 2
• Dust pan
• Push broom
• Trash bags large black & 13 gallon
• Small latex gloves
• Small dishwashing gloves
• Oven cleaner
• Lysol spray
• Gallon zip locks & sandwich bags
• Financial Help
• Volunteers
• Hygiene Items to Put in Shoe Boxes for Residents for Christmas

I asked Pastor Brad what they needed from volunteers. He told me there's so much work to be done - from cleaning, to food service, to just sitting and talking with people, everything makes a difference.

Pastor Brad told me that he has been amazed to see the community step up—there’s so much heart and hard work going into making this mission a real resource for those in need. In fact, they are already thinking bigger and looking at more ways Impact Ministries can have an impact in Warrick County.

To help out or inquire about any of Impact Ministries' services, contact Impact Ministries on Facebook or visit them at 509 E Walnut Street in Boonville.

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