Seminole County’s only emergency shelter will continue to operate thanks to financial support from AdventHealth, the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. AdventHealth’s $50,000 donation, given on behalf of the hospital system’s medical staff as part of annual recognition of their service, will allow the Rescue Outreach Mission of Central Florida, Inc. to continue to accept people and provide a safe, warm haven for those who may have no other option.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to AdventHealth for their leadership in recognizing the needs of this community,” said Bonnye Deese, interim executive director of the Rescue Outreach Mission. “We rely on donations from businesses, churches, private foundations, and individuals to continue meeting the needs of disadvantaged population of Seminole County. We’re hopeful that others will see the importance of supporting our mission of providing resources that help prevent homelessness and by helping those who are already homeless return to self-sufficiency.”

The Mission will use the $50,000 to improve the 101-bed facility in Sanford as well as perform delayed maintenance that has threatened to force the closure of the shelter. The shelter is the only cold weather shelter in the county and does not turn anyone away when temperatures drop below 40 degrees. Additionally, funds will go toward restoring the “fishes and loaves” campaign, which will stock the Mission’s pantry, that provides lunch and dinner to shelter residents seven days a week and to others in need five days a week.

“AdventHealth’s commitment to the health of our community doesn’t stop at the walls of our hospitals,” said Tim Cook, CEO of AdventHealth Altamonte Springs. “Partnering with local organizations that share our commitment to bringing vital services to those who need it most is key to achieving our goal of making our community one of the healthiest in the nation.”

The Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), which serves as a roadmap for AdventHealth’s community involvement, recently identified food insecurity and community development as two of the greatest needs facing the region. With the additional funding, the Rescue Outreach Mission helps address those needs.