A temporary homeless shelter on East Washington Avenue, which drew complaints from some residents, will close its doors Thursday.
In December, nonprofit services provider Porchlight Inc. opened a temporary daytime resource center at 754 E. Washington Ave. in response to the Madison Central Library and the Capitol basement closing. Previously, homeless people used these locations for shelter in the winter.
“I think the shelter itself has been very well-run for people who have been utilizing shelter services appropriately,” Ald. Bridget Maniaci, District 2, said. “Obviously, there are individuals who choose to abuse those services.”
Neighbors have complained about some residents’ behavior like being drunk, fighting and smoking, according to Maniaci.
Maniaci said the resource center highlights the issue of homelessness in Madison and demonstrates the need for a long-term shelter solution.
Porchlight Inc. provides an additional resource center, Hospitality House on Martin Street, which remains open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
