Members First to Match Up to $20,000 in Donations to New Dawn Shelter

Members First Credit Union has announced the launch of its "Double the Donation" campaign in support of New Dawn Shelter. This initiative aims to maximize the impact of community donations by matching them dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $20,000.

As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Members First wants to continue to deepen the mission of serving the underserved, especially in the capacity of basic needs and housing. This mission starts at the most basic level of ensuring community members have a safe space to reside when experiencing homelessness.

New Dawn Shelter is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals experiencing homelessness on their journey toward employment and secure housing. Through a 90-day program, guests work closely with case management staff to develop personalized plans focused on achieving long-term stability, including securing housing, income, and overall security. They also participate in training sessions covering essential life skills such as budgeting and financial management.

The cost to house one guest for a day is $19. With four bedrooms able to accommodate 10 to 12 guests including men, women, and families, New Dawn Shelter relies on donations from individuals, businesses, and churches in Gladwin and surrounding communities. These donations are crucial in sustaining the shelter's operations and providing critical support to homeless individuals seeking a fresh start.

Members First Credit Union's "Double the Donation" campaign encourages community members, local businesses, and credit union members to contribute generously to New Dawn Shelter. For every dollar donated, Members First will match the donation, effectively doubling the impact of each contribution, up to $20,000.

“We are thrilled to launch the 'Double the Donation' campaign in partnership with New Dawn Shelter,” Kristen Williamson, Community Relations Leader at Members. “By matching donations, we hope to inspire others to contribute and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness."

To participate in the campaign, community members can donate directly through New Dawn Shelter's official website or drop off a donation at New Dawn Shelter, 137 Commerce Ct., Gladwin, Michigan. The campaign will run until September 30th or until the goal of $20,000 has been reached.

"We are grateful for the generous support of Members First Credit Union," said Kevin Brott, CEO of New Dawn Shelter. “Their commitment to our cause will provide a tremendous boost to our efforts in providing shelter, resources, and hope to those experiencing homelessness. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals within our community."

Members First Credit Union encourages the community to spread the word about the “Double the Donation” campaign through various channels, including social media, community newsletters, and word of mouth, to maximize community engagement and impact.

About New Dawn Shelter: Since 2015, New Dawn Shelter has been dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals experiencing homelessness on their journey toward employment and secure housing. The shelter serves five rural counties: Gladwin, Clare, Arenac, Ogemaw and Roscommon. New Dawn partners with local agencies to help provide guests resources to secure a job and housing. New Dawn has four bedrooms that allow us to house 10 to 12 people in various combinations of men, women and families. Guests work closely with case management staff to develop personalized plans focused on achieving long-term stability, including securing housing, income, budgeting and overall security. Learn more at newdawnshelter.org