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Shelter: Open 24/7 for registered guests

(989) 400-4126
Isabella County Restoration House logoIsabella County
Restoration House

FAQ

Questions, answered clearly.

Getting shelter

How do I get shelter at ICRH?

Start with Central Michigan Coordinated Entry. Choose the option that matches your situation and the intake team will help find the right next step. You can also call ICRH at (989) 400-4126 or email icrh@icrhouse.org with questions.

Get help

Can anyone stay at the shelter?

The shelter serves registered guests who meet current program requirements and have completed the shelter-entry process. If you need shelter, start with Coordinated Entry so your options can be reviewed.

Get help

Is anyone not able to stay as a guest?

ICRH cannot accept registered sex offenders, and some criminal histories may be screened out. ICRH does not discriminate based on age, gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion or disability.

Eligibility wording needs leadership and counsel review.

Do you serve people outside Isabella County?

ICRH serves people experiencing homelessness in Isabella County and also prioritizes people from Clare County who need shelter.

Confirm current service area wording.

Staying at ICRH

Where do I keep my belongings?

Each guest is given a secure locker during their stay. Lockers are not for long-term storage, and space is limited.

How long can I stay?

Stays are reviewed at 30, 60 and 90 days. Guests who are actively working on their goals and still need emergency shelter can continue to stay. Staff work with each guest on a plan toward housing and stability.

Confirm current length-of-stay policy.

Are meals provided?

Meals are provided for registered guests, with local churches and partners helping with evening meals. Meal availability can change by season, so please ask staff for the current schedule.

Reconcile meal schedule across pages.

Children & families

Are children and families welcome?

Yes. ICRH welcomes families with children and has a play area on site. Some parents worry that bringing children to a shelter will draw attention from Child Protective Services. A safe, structured place to stay is generally far better for children than moving between temporary places, and staff are glad to talk through any concerns.

Donations

What items are always needed?

Everyday consumables such as paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, fabric softener, tissues, copy paper, juice and snacks are always welcome. See the full wish list on the Donate page.

Do you accept clothing, blankets or toys?

We don't have space to handle clothing or blankets. Please give these to Clothing, Inc., which works closely with ICRH to make sure guests have what they need. Toys can go to the Salvation Army Thrift Shop or Goodwill.

Should I call before dropping off a donation?

For larger or unusual items, please call (989) 400-4126 first so we can confirm we have room to store them. Items on the wish list can be dropped off during office hours.

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes. ICRH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. When you give by cash, check or electronic transfer, ICRH receives 100% of your gift.

Volunteering

What do volunteers do?

Volunteers help staff run the shelter, talk with guests, prepare evening meals and help with cleaning. Tasks depend on the shift and current needs.

What are the requirements?

Volunteers must be at least 18, show a valid ID, complete the sign-up form and pass a background check, which is renewed every year.

Confirm requirements.

How do I sign up?

Complete the volunteer registration form or email Cindy Hoyle at cindy.hoyle@icrhouse.org. After your background check is complete, you'll receive training information and a link to available shifts.

I can't make my shift. What should I do?

Call ICRH at (989) 400-4126 as soon as you can.

What should I wear?

Business casual, and jeans are fine. Please avoid cropped, tight or revealing clothing, and T-shirts with offensive language or alcohol or drug logos.

Can I bring a friend or my children?

Every volunteer must complete their own form, background check and training, and the facility is not open to visitors. Families who want children to help serve a church-hosted meal should talk with Cindy Hoyle before signing up.

Employment

Are you hiring?

There are no open positions right now. Volunteer roles are always available, and open jobs will be posted on the Careers page.