MESI History

In 1984, Manhattan residents responded to a community wide survey, overwhelmingly proclaiming that a homeless shelter should be at the top of the community's priority list. Following the survey more than 20 Manhattan residents formed a committee to accomplish this task.

On January 8, 1985, with the help of the First Presbyterian Church, the Manhattan Emergency Shelter, Inc. opened its doors for the first time. As the number of guests served each year increased, the need for a transitional living program designed to bridge the gap between independent living and permanent housing, became apparent.

In 1993 the Sunflower House was purchased at 901 Leavenworth and a transitional living program was established. After ten years of successful outcomes it was clear that transitional living was a great addition to the community, and the need for expansion was evident.

In July of 2003 the Fremont House, which was leased from the Manhattan Mennonite Church, and added to the transitional living program creating an environment more suited to house women and families.

In December of 2006 the Fremont House was closed and in June of 2008 the Sunflower House was closed both in order to prepare for the new Permanent Housing Programs that are to start in Mid-2009.

On August 27th 2009 MESI moved from 831 Leavenworth into the newly built Caroline Peine Transitional Shelter located on 4th and Yuma. Like the shelter before it, it is a transitional shelter for men, women and families, however the new shelter can house up to 47 individuals, almost double the previous occupancy.

The Manhattan Emergency Shelter, Inc. is sustained largely due to grant funding. Over the past twenty years MESI has utilized many grants to maintain successful programs and services for our guests.