BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Salvation Army has kicked off a new chapter in downtown Buffalo after 140 years of helping those in need.
The faith-based organization announced plans to rebuild its shelter on Main Street and begin fundraising for two other projects. The fundraising campaign is called "Hope On Main."
"We are here today and launching this plan," said Salvation Army Major Annette Lock.
During a press conference Wednesday Lock said this project is 20 years in the making and will include three phases. The first phase involves redoing the Salvation Army's current 80-bed emergency homeless shelter on Main Street, hence the campaign's name.
The second phase calls for the construction of 140 new affordable apartments along the same stretch and 17 townhomes for larger families in need on North Pearl.
The third phase would involve building a new East Buffalo Salvation Army Church and Community Center complete with after-school programs, summer camps, a gym, a fitness center, a food pantry, and more.
"Hours and hours and hours have been invested by many people, funds have been secured from many sources, partners have been identified and now here we are," said Salvation Army Divisional Commander Kevin Stoops.
The total estimated cost of the project according to a press release from the Salvation Army is $100 million. It would be paid for using New York State and Erie County funds plus $2 million from the pool of American Rescue Plan money allocated to the City of Buffalo.
The Salvation Army is hoping Western New York will donate $12 million to help support their work with individuals experiencing homelessness or those who've fallen on hard times.
"For giving hope to individuals and families across our city and for addressing the needs through projects like this one that focuses on both emergency housing and the creation of new affordable housing," said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.
Based on early renderings of the project, the Salvation Army envisions big changes compared to the modified hotel that they've been using for years. The designs imply creating more of a neighborhood feel, where families and individuals in need can be treated with dignity and work to get back on their feet.
"We believe in the good work that this project is embarking on and the life that it will bring to our community," said Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin.
Melissa Balbach, whose family is a long-time supporter of the Salvation Army added: "Not only will hope on main provide a safe haven but it will provide hope to those who may have lost it."
Donations to the "Hope on Main" campaign can be made here.