PORTSMOUTH -- A new building is going up to help the homeless in Portsmouth.
Ground was broken Friday for the new Oasis Social Ministry.
"The number of low-income and homeless people who depend on us has soared dramatically during the economic downturn," said Oasis’ executive director Jo-Anne Roisen. "Our new building is sorely needed to expand our programs and services."
City leaders joined officials from TowneBank, Oasis and Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless for the ceremony.
Officials say the new building, at the intersection of Columbia Street and Williamsburg Avenue, will enable Oasis and Portsmouth Volunteers to expand programs and services for the homeless and low income families.
A capital campaign is raising money for the new building. Oasis has raised $1.7 million of the $2.2 million goal.
To learn more or to help Oasis reach the goal, call 757-397-6060.
Oasis, a non-profit organization, has a thrift shop and offers food, clothing, and household and financial assistance to the needy. A soup kitchen is open Monday through Thursday. On weekends, it provides the facilities for PARC coordinated feeding.
Last year, Oasis served more than 83,814 meals to hungry families and individuals through our soup kitchen and food pantry.
The building is expected to open in the fall.
