Jeremy Ratliff
Editor
Since the MAC Home opened its doors last spring, its primary goal has been to provide those in need a place to stay warm, safe and secure. It appears as if the facility has done just that for a growing number of visitors.
According to Executive Director Theresa Anthoney, since March 4 MAC Home has provided shelter and temporary housing for 112 individuals, for a total of 979 nights. 95 of the facility’s visitors have been residents of Lincoln County.
22 have been children.
”While a majority of our visitors have been Lincoln County residents, we have had visitors come in from Marathon and Oneida counties when those shelters are full,” Anthoney explains.
Previously known as Habitat Home, the facility reopened under its new name, following extensive renovations.
Operated by the Merrill Community Homeless Center, Inc. (MCHCI), a 501 (c)(3) not–for-profit organization, MCHCI took ownership of the building, where the MAC Home now stands in October of 2017.
The building was gutted and a completely new interior was designed and built to meet the needs of the shelter.
According to a press release following the facility’s completion last spring, “This facility was made possible due to the generosity of the community – foundations, businesses, churches, organizations and individuals. The major contractors were Turenne Construction, general contractor; Central Carpet and Flooring; RTL Electric Co.; Krueger Plumbing, LLC; and Merrill sheet Metal Works. Several others were involved in drywall, painting, ceiling, masonry and more.”
In addition to a five chair warming center complete with a kitchenette, MAC Home also provides a 4 bedroom Transitional Living Area (TLA). While the warming center is only open during nighttime and overnight hours, the TLA provides housing up to 90 days. MAC Home also provides assistance to those residing at the TLA, such as housing and employment.
”We work with various resources in the community to find suitable housing and stable employment for all of our clients participating in our Transitional Living Program,” Anthoney adds.
”Although clients can stay with us up to 90 days, to date we have never had anyone have to stay the full 90 days. We have been able to help all of our clients find housing and employment well before then.”
For more information on the MAC Home and services provided, Executive Director Theresa Anthoney can be reached at (715) 722-1200 during regular business hours of 8 a.m-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.Or visit the MAC Home website at http://MACHomeMerrillWi.com.