Salvation Army Kicks Off $9.1M Shelter Expansion as Charlotte Homelessness Rises

A massive shelter expansion is underway in Charlotte as the Salvation Army invests $9.1 million into two facilities. With local homelessness climbing 3% this year, the Center of Hope will receive $3.5 million in renovations while Booth Commons will get $5.6 million in improvements. Both projects are expected to open by summer 2025.

The latest numbers show a grim reality. 2,784 people experienced homelessness in Mecklenburg County from mid-2023 to mid-2024. Most concerning was the 33% jump in people living on the streets during this time.

“Thirty plus years ago, when we built the building, the homeless needs in Charlotte were different than the homeless needs now,” said Burns, a Salvation Army area commander to the Charlotte Observer. “We have to innovate and we have to think differently about solutions.”

At the Center of Hope, plans include six specialized rooms to help guests with mental health needs or physical disabilities. Teams will build a 3,500-square-foot common area, including bathrooms and showers, for meetings and health screenings.

The facility currently shelters 287 people each night. When it gets cold, staff convert dining halls and classrooms into sleeping areas, increasing capacity to 330 beds.

Every night, the 52,000-square-foot building shelters about 275 women and children. They get three meals daily plus case management help and health services.

At Booth Commons, work focuses on fixing damaged plumbing systems and living areas. Until work is done, families are staying in nearby hotels.

Since 2022, supporters have given $32 million for these needed upgrades. They still need another $6 million to finish all planned work.

Through a partnership with Inlivian in East Charlotte, they run 60 units at Hampton Creste Apartments. They also help with rent and utility bills for people who risk losing their homes.

These services meet a crucial need. Research shows nearly 6 in 10 Americans would face homelessness if they missed just one paycheck.

The Center of Hope offers 100 apartment-style units at once. Each apartment has its bathroom and kitchen, giving families in crisis a stable place to stay.