A three-year long ordeal for a Branson charity officially came to an end on Tuesday, Oct. 3.
House of Hope was given a long-term special use permit by the city of Branson for their warming center, allowing them to provide a place for homeless in Branson to go when the outside temperature is forecasted to fall below 32 degrees.
“It feels great,” Executive Director Tracy Banks told Branson Tri-Lakes News. “I think it was all of the feelings of three years that finally came out today. We can officially operate a warming center above Riley’s Treasures, and we had setbacks along the way. We have officially signed off on a new sprinkler system, new construction, and we’re ready to open the first night it’s 32 degrees or below.”
In Oct. 2022, the city allowed House of Hope to operate for one year with conditions including a new fire hydrant, sprinkler system, new bathrooms, and fire-resistant ceiling panels. If the center completed all the projects within the year period, the special use permit would be issued without a conditional date.
The facility will contain 49 beds, and will be split between men and women. Banks said they will adjust the beds and rooms depending on which gender will need more beds for any particular night.
The full story can be read on the Branson Tri-Lakes News Website.