A grassroots organization formed to explore the needs of the homeless in the city wants to find property in Ironton to develop a daytime shelter.

“We are looking now for some kind of property as a small center,” Sallie Schisler, of the organization, said. “We are in the process of trying to develop a budget so we can apply for grants from Bon Secours Health System.”

Meeting the daytime needs of the homeless is the main priority of the organization as they must leave the mission shelter each morning. Right now, the homeless have few options for places to stay during the day outside of fast food restaurants and the library.

Property within the city limits, preferably in walking distance of the city mission, is being sought. Right now, besides searching for property, the group also would like donations of appliances and furniture that would be appropriate for the center.

“Certainly if someone is out there who feels their property would be great, contact me or Cindy Anderson at the (Ironton-Lawrence County) Community Action Organization,” Schisler said. “Everyone agrees it makes sense to be a convenient walking distance of the mission, the CAO and the One Stop. Clearly the One Stop provides all kinds of services that you would want to provide. Health care, education. You can get all the services at the One Stop, but you can’t hang out there. We are looking for a place to stop in, take a shower, do their laundry and have a cup of coffee.”

Schisler can be reached at Christ Episcopal Church at 740-532-3528.